ATSC3 Encryption in 2025

[Jonlumpkin]

What is the current state of ATSC3 encryption? I live in the Kansas City metro an currently use a two tuner HD HomeRun Duo (ATSC 1.0) to feed my channels DVR server. I'm considering buying a HD HomeRun Flex 4k to get ATSC3 but worried it won't actually work.

One of my TVs is a SONY A80K OLED with an ATSC3 tuner. I know that is able to pick up ATSC3 stations fine using a tiny antenna and the quality is better than ATSC1 channels. Many broadcasts on the ATSC3 feeds in my area include 1080P, HDR, and ATMOS audio while ATSC1 is limited to 1080i, SDR, and Dolby Digital AC3.

However, I can't tell for sure if the local stations are encrypted or if the ATSC3 tuner will even work on an HD HomeRun. Clients for channels are a mix of Apple TV 4ks and iPads.

[elvisimprsntr]

Looks like all your local stations are encrypted except for the FOX and PBS affiliate.

https://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=atsc3

[Rice]

@elvisimprsntr

Looks like all your local stations are encrypted except for the FOX and PBS affiliate.

I’m in the KC area with an hdhr flex 4k and can verify this. Also 38 is not encrypted. Fox is noticeably better looking on atsc3 but probably not worth the investment at this time.

[Pokemon_Dad]

@Jonlumpkin

I'm considering buying a HD HomeRun Flex 4k to get ATSC3 but worried it won't actually work.

At this time, the Flex 4K will not be able to decode the encrypted stations in the above list. A3SA is being very difficult about HDHRs and other gateway devices.

I believe the only currently approved system is Zapperbox, which keeps content inside a secure hardware network. They were only recently allowed to begin sending encrypted content between their tuner/DVR boxes and their Mini client boxes. Oh and before you ask, I'll add that I doubt Zapperbox will ever be allowed to give Channels DVR access to their DVRs. The Zapperbox folks hope to get approval for Roku/ATV/Android/Fire apps of their own design, but I'm sure that will be difficult.

The industry should not be able to get away with their DRM plans, and you can help prevent it. See this thread: FCC Comment Period re: ATSC3 DRM

[Jonlumpkin]

Thanks for the quick replies everyone and saving me $200 on a failed experiment. I will review and comment on the FCC link. Thanks!

[Flt505]

You might want to keep up with Lon TV, he will keep you informed.