We have instantaneous video communication (FaceTime, Zoom, etc.) so why can’t news channels use different, existing technology to communicate instantaneously?
In: Engineering
Let me first disclaim I left the business nine years ago, so things may have changed but I doubt it.
Reporting from the field is a one-way transmission, usually through microwave or satellite, so that video and audio only transmits from the remote location to the station.
The reporter in the field is usually listening to audio via an ear-piece connected through a phone call called an IFB.
The lag results from audio/video being sent via one microwave/satellite and audio being received through a completely different medium, the phone call.
Local remotes will usually have a small TV with them so they can monitor the on-air broadcast but most satellite appearances are usually out of range and rely only on ear-piece audio through the phone line.
Latest Answers