PBS APPROVAL REQUIRED

All these elements must be approved well in advance of final picture lock.

	Final Format
	Interactive Content Announcement
	On-Air Offers
	Underwriting
	Production Credits

STANDARD LENGTH REQUIREMENTS

All programs delivered to PBS must meet standard length requirements.

Standard Lengths for PBS children's programs
	Program length of 30 minutes = 28:46
	Program length of 60 minutes = 58:46

Standard Lengths for PBS programs:
	Program length of 30 minutes = 26:46
	Program length of 60 minutes = 56:46
	Program length of 90 minutes = 1:26:46
	Program length of 120 minutes = 1:56:46

ON-AIR LOOK OF PACKAGING ELEMENTS

Static and/or black backgrounds are NOT permitted

Top and tail packaging elements must mirror the production values of the program and flow smoothly into and out of program content.

SPLIT SCREEN TREATMENTS

	Web Site Announcements
	Next Episode Teases
	On-Air Offers

PBS strongly recommends a split-screen production credit treatment in the presence of any or all of the elements listed.

Program Management must approve all split-screen credit rolls in advance. If the program includes any of these elements, and the producer cannot incorporate them into a split-screen treatment, please contact the Program Management department.

TURNKEY BREAKS

PBS determines if a program should contain turnkey breaks or intermissions.

Turnkey breaks or intermissions are only permitted in certain instances. Producers must consult with Program Management prior to committing a program to either of these formats.

Programs under two hours may not contain a turnkey break or intermission.

TOP OF THE SHOW TEASES

Teases should be approx. 30 seconds.

This optional spot can be helpful in setting up the content to follow and/or seizing the viewer's attention. They can also help to create space between the local station break and the program's underwriting pod. These teases must be energetic and compelling.

PROGRAM OPEN & TITLE SEQUENCE

Opens should be approx. 30 seconds.

Shorter opens or title sequences are preferred. The open can precede or follow the underwriting sequence per the producer's discretion.

BUMPERS OUT/ OPTIONAL TEASE

To maximize audience retention.

For multi-reel programs with turnkey breaks or intermissions, a bumper must be placed prior to the break indicating that the program continues. Examples of this language are:

"Don't go away. This program will continue in a moment"
or
"Don't go away. Coming up on the continuation of this program..." (with tease)

NEXT TIME TEASES

These spots should NOT include audio or fonts that reference a specific day/time of broadcast.

If the program is part of a series, the producers must include a promotional spot at the end of the program that teases the next episode. Please see the formats in this section for placement information.

The language should be generic such as: "Next time on...." or "On an upcoming episode of...."

PBS SYSTEM CUE

One full second of black must precede (and follow, if post-system cue material is present) the PBS System Cue.

Each program must conclude with the PBS system cue ("I am PBS" or "We are PBS"). Children's programs must conclude with the PBS KIDS system cue.

Programs that carry an intermission or turnkey break must include the internal PBS system cue ("PBS will return in a moment") prior to the break.

The PBS system cue must have a hard cut out — no dissolves. Please refer to PBS' "Technical Operation Specifications" for more information about system cue requirements.

POST-SYSTEM CUE FILLERS

All filler material is considered optional and may be deleted at the individual option of member stations.

Filler is only permitted in certain instances and must be cleared in advance by PBS Program Management.

Filler material should always be the last element on the program after the PBS system cue and a full second of black.

Please alert your Program Management contact if you will have more than 2:00 of filler.

PROGRAM BUGS AND LOWER THIRDS

Program Bugs are NOT permitted.

Programs or series may NOT use visible program bugs, icons, or identifiers in the body of the program. Most member stations use their own bugs and program specific material can overlap with the local identifier.

Try to keep lower thirds clear.

In addition, producers should keep in mind that co-branded bugs (national and local adjacent logos) will appear in the bottom right hand corner of the screen. Lower thirds should not interfere with the use of co-branded bugs.

CLOSED CAPTIONING

A summary of FCC requirements on closed captioning can be found at fcc.gov

PBS requires that all programs, including HD and Widescreen, airing on any PBS service, including but not limited to the National Program Service and PBS Plus, must be closed captioned.

Programs may arrive captioned/encoded or producers may arrange for PBS to complete closed captioning (at the expense of the producer). Master tapes delivered to PBS prior to captioning must include a full script of the program.

LANGUAGE FLAGS AND CONTENT ALERTS

Please alert your Programming contact to any potential flags or alerts.

In the event that a program contains graphic content (i.e., nudity, violence or sexuality) or language flags, the producer may be asked to edit out material or provide an edited version (at the expense of the producer).

SAMPLE FORMATS

30 Minute Programs (26:46)

60/90 Minute Programs (56:46/86:46)

2 Hour Programs (1:56:46)

2 Hour Programs With One Internal Break (1:56:46)

30 Minute Children's Programs (28:46)

60 Minute Children's Programs (58:46)

UNDERWRITING

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Program Underwriting Policy at (703) 739-5291 or pup@pbs.org

All underwriting arrangements must be cleared in advance by PBS Program Underwriting Policy (PUP).

The "PBS National Program Funding Standards and Practices" is available from the PUP department or at www.pbs.org/producers/guidelines/index.html

PBS defines an "underwriter" as a third party that has voluntarily contributed cash to finance, in whole or in part, the production or acquisition of a PBS program. Money from such sources used toward research and development, or for packaging or repackaging a program, ordinarily counts as underwriting as well. Federal law requires that those who helped pay for a broadcast, be disclosed on the air at the time of the broadcast. Therefore we identify all the program underwriters in the underwriting credit pod.

Investment partners, licensing partners and other distribution entities providing cash for the purchase of rights other than broadcast rights on PBS are not underwriters and do not get acknowledgement on air (but must be revealed on the PAA).

ON-AIR UNDERWRITING CREDIT POD

Maximum Credit Pod = 60 seconds

Maximum individual credit = 15 seconds

No underwriting credit pod may be more than 60 seconds in length. No single underwriter may receive more than a 15-second credit.

Whenever one underwriter is mentioned all must be acknowledged. Consequently, the underwriting credit pod at the beginning and end of the program will in most cases be the same length. The credits, however, need not be identical. For example, at the top of the program an underwriter duly identified may feature one product or service and at the bottom another product or service.

WHAT IF THERE ARE MORE UNDERWRITERS THAN ALLOWABLE TIME?

Contact Program Underwriting Policy.

Do not list remaining underwriters in production credits.

If you believe there are too many underwriters to be acknowledged on the program, Program Underwriting will help determine what a reasonable cut-off point will be (provide electronically and in writing, a complete list of names and amounts in decreasing order of contribution). Where full disclosure on air is impractical, the remaining underwriters are not to be listed in the production credits. Instead, the underwriting credits may end with the language: "…And others, a complete list is available from PBS."

ON-AIR LOOK OF THE UNDERWRITING CREDIT POD

Silent cards over a static and/or black background are NOT acceptable.

The underwriting credit pod must mirror the production values of the program and flow smoothly with program content and other packaging elements.

FREQUENCY OF THE UNDERWRITING CREDIT POD

The underwriting credit pod must appear at both beginning and end of News and Public Affairs programs.

The underwriting credit pod must appear at the end of the program and may appear at the beginning. For News and Public Affairs programming the underwriting must be disclosed both at the beginning and at the end of the program.

PLACEMENT OF UNDERWRITING CREDIT POD

Top of Program

Must start by three minutes into the program. Top underwriting credit pod should be placed after a program open or program tease in order to separate national underwriting from local underwriting.

Middle of Program

It is at the sole discretion of Program Management to determine whether a program will receive a mid-program break and whether that break is long enough to accommodate an underwriting credit pod and/or other transitional elements.

End of Program

The underwriting credit pod should appear either immediately before or immediately after the final production credits.

PREAMBLES - "THIS PROGRAM WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY..."

Preamble must be counted in the 60-second allotment.

The introduction or preamble to the underwriting counts as part of the total 60 seconds allotted. Suggestions for preamble can be found in the "PBS National Program Funding Standards and Practices". Using "brought to you by" and any form of the word "sponsor" must be specifically approved by Program Underwriting Policy.

ORDER OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Viewers Like You MUST be the last element.

Underwriters should be credited in descending order of the amount of their grants. When PBS money has been received by the producer, however, the Viewers Like You credit should always be the last element in the funding bed, regardless of the amount.

PBS AND CPB UNDERWRITING CREDITS

CPB and PBS (Viewers like You) funding are NOT the same.

Producers should use the same voice-over talent as used on the other program packaging sequences.

Funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is distinct and independent from PBS funding (Viewers Like You). Producers should NOT automatically assume that both credits are appropriate and always appear together.

Producers should use a font style that mirrors the design of their program packaging treatment. The "Viewers Like You" text and/or CPB logo should be keyed over images or graphic elements from their program.

The Viewers Like You voiceover:
"This program was made possible by contributions to your PBS station from viewers like you. Thank you."

Or in the presence of other underwriting:
"This program was made possible by (UNDERWRITERS) and by contributions to your PBS station from viewers like you. Thank you."

The Viewers Like You credit MUST contain a visual graphic reading "Viewers Like You," that transitions to a graphic reading "Thank You."

The CPB voiceover:
"This program was made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting"

The CPB credit MUST contain a visual treatment with the CPB logo, the tag line "A private corporation funded by the American people" and "cpb.org".

ABOUT THE UNDERWRITING CREDIT CLEARANCE FORM

Due 10 weeks prior to the first day of the month of broadcast

Producers should initiate contact with Program Underwriting Policy as early as possible to discuss the proposed credit, especially when anticipating a complex or "highly produced" spot. Be prepared to provide storyboards and video roughcuts.

See Forms section of this manual

The producer is ultimately responsible for the entire underwriting credit pod and for submitting the Underwriting Credit Clearance Form. If any credits are already produced and/or approved, this should be indicated on the form (with approval date, if applicable), along with all the other information required. Preambles should also be included on the form.

PROMOTION

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Brand Management and Promotion at (703) 739-5102

Producers are charged with supplying all PBS member stations with essential promotion materials for all programs and series. Below is a breakdown of those materials. PBS will facilitate distribution of these materials whenever possible. Producers who choose to distribute promotional materials (press kits, photos, releases, etc.) themselves must ensure that PBS and stations receive materials a minimum of 8 weeks before the first day of the month in which their program feeds.

The PBS Print Promotion Logo (either "See It on PBS" or "See It On PBS Kids") must be displayed on all nationally produced print promotion materials developed by producers, stations and underwriters to promote programs accepted by PBS for distribution.

PROMOTION DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS

On-Air Promotional Spots

A 30-second and 20-second on-air promotional spot for each program/episode is due to PBS Creative Services 6 weeks prior to broadcast. On-air promotion spots feed to stations three times a week.

Program Listings

Producers must provide to PBS a program listing (brief program/episode description for each program). For series, please provide a generic listing as well as a listing for each episode within a series. Listings are due 10 weeks before the first day of the month of a program's distribution. PBS will distribute listings to stations and TV listings services each month.

Photographic Images

Producers must provide PBS stations with a high-quality photo. Costs for production, duplication and distribution of photos are the financial responsibility of the producer. The attached rate sheet includes the cost for distributing photos through PBS Electronic Graphics Service. This convenient "one-stop shopping" service for station promotion directors and producers includes the processing and distribution of color or black-and-white images to stations and/or press in hard copy and/or electronically through PBS Connect, PBS PressRoom® and the monthly station image CD-ROMs. Images distributed through PBS will be made available online to national press on PBS PressRoom®. Program images submitted to PBS are due approximately 10 weeks before the first day of the month of a program's distribution.

Screening Cassettes (clean)

One Beta SP and one VHS without Burnt-In Timecode version for PBS Communications.

Program Press Announcements

In order to alert PBS member stations and to insure a coordinated promotion effort, PBS Program Press Relations must be consulted in advance of any press announcement made by a producer of any program distributed by PBS.

Special Event Notification

Producers must provide PBS with advance notification - ideally 12 weeks - of any program/series special events to be held in Washington, DC, New York City and Los Angeles so that PBS can discuss with producers possible collaborations, track events for possible conflicts with other programming events, disseminate information to stations, and be aware of events targeted to Capitol Hill and possible legislative activities. We would appreciate knowing about any nationwide events as well. Contact Carrie Johnson, senior director, PBS communications and event management, (703) 739-5129.

PROGRAM PROMOTION PRIORITIES

PBS designates program promotion priorities (pop-outs, keys and programs of note) to receive heightened promotion support. Pop-out programs are the biggest events in the PBS schedule and are supported through paid media, on-air promotion and national publicity. Key programs receive on-air and publicity support, while programs of note receive publicity support.

PBS will notify producers of program designations, and will discuss the additional requirements for designated programs. Those requirements include:

1.	Station Print Materials - Producers of all designated programs must provide a program press release to PBS for distribution to stations and posting on PBS PressRoom®. Producers of programs designated "pop out" must provide two images to PBS for processing through the EGS. Producers of "key" programs must provide one photo to PBS for processing through the EGS.
2.	On-Air Materials - Footage for PBS-created spots and season preview reels is required approximately six to eight months prior to the program's air date. Broadcast quality tapes, screening tapes with matching burned-in time code (split audio tracks are preferable) and program descriptions should be sent to PBS Creative Services. PBS reserves the right to produce, in collaboration with the producer, the on-air campaign for key and pop-out programs only, and PBS retains the right of final approval of all spots. PRODUCERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CLEARING FOOTAGE FOR USE IN ALL ON-AIR PROMOTION. SEE PROGRAM BUSINESS AFFAIRS LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

ADDITIONAL PROMOTION SERVICES

PBS can help coordinate other services if requested by the producer within reasonable time limits. PBS staff will assist producers in writing and/or editing print materials, selecting and cropping photos, and advising on other promotional matters. Other services include:

National Press

The PBS Program Press Relations department provides program information in its national program highlights; provides PR counseling (primarily regarding press in NY and LA markets); facilitates screening cassette requests, either by providing them directly or by referring requests to individual production entities; and disseminates program material upon request. PBS also provides stations with press preview feeds for virtually all new primetime programs approximately two weeks before the national air date, allowing station program information directors to offer cassettes for local press review.

Distributing Releases, Feature Articles, Bios, Etc.

PBS will distribute (via PBS Express) program-related, producer-prepared feature articles, host/cast biographies, interviews etc., to stations for use in their monthly program guides or for release to local media. Material should be sent to your PBS Communications contact via e-mail. For timely distribution of these materials, it is recommended that materials be delivered to PBS 10 weeks before the first day of the month of a program's distribution.

Advertising Assistance

In the event that you (or your program underwriter) are planning national or selected market advertising for your program, please contact PBS Brand Management and Promotion.

Radio Spots

PBS will feed producer-supplied radio spots to member stations at no cost. Thirty-second spots on DAT or D3, D2, Beta or 1" videotape, with visual slate throughout, should be delivered 6 weeks before the program's scheduled feed date. There must be a minimum of 05-second tag time included within the total spot length of each spot.

Labels

Producers may purchase labels from PBS Brand Management and Promotion for additional mailings to program information directors, program guide editors, program directors, etc. Producers who choose to distribute promotional print materials themselves will find these labels helpful. Contact: (703) 739-5294.

PBS PROMOTION CONTACTS

Brand Management & Promotion
Promotion strategy and paid media
(703) 739-5102
2100 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202-3785

Communications & Program Events
PBS Press Tour, PBS Conference events, D.C. events, program press releases and photos
(703) 739-5129
2100 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202-3785

Creative Services
On-air promos
(703) 739-5072
2100 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202-3785

DELIVERY DEADLINE

Deliver six weeks before show broadcast

You must deliver promos 6 weeks before the program's air date. Earlier is better. 6 weeks are needed for PBS to turn them around to feed via satellite to stations, and for stations to tag and log them in time to properly promote the show. Please communicate this deadline, and its importance, to any production staff involved in your promo.

LATE DELIVERY OF PROMOS WILL RESULT IN A FINE. SEE LATE TAPE DELIVERY FEES FOR DETAILS.

NUMBER OF SPOTS AND LENGTHS OF SPOTS

:30 and :20

For a single episode special, provide a :30 and a :20 promo. For a multi-part series, provide :30 and :20 generic spots that promote the series, and a :30 and :20 for each episode of the series. This is the minimum requirement.

Note: Don't treat the :20 as an afterthought of the :30. It is an important length that stations use quite often. And it doesn't always have to be a cutdown of the :30 -- a spot this short often demands a different approach. Make the :20 stand alone on its own merits.

Additional lengths

If you are able to provide more than the minimum, provide shorter or longer spots (:10, :15, :60, for example). Making shorter promos, while not adding much additional cost, may increase the visibility of your program. And because stations always need fresh longer-length elements, :60 spots and fillers (2-5 minutes) are always welcome.

No odd lengths

All spot lengths must end with a 0, except for :15. Fillers over two minutes long may violate this rule. And frame accuracy is required -- no :29:17 spots.

Additional elements may be requested

You should be prepared to deliver additional production elements at PBS' request. With these elements, your show can be more easily incorporated with other productions such as PBS Preview Reels and member stations' local promos for your show. If asked, include these elements on the same reel as your promos. These elements may include:

	Theme music. This should be the full and clean version of the show's theme music, along with any existing variations.
	Title graphics. Whether it is static or animated, provide the graphic of the show title you used in the promo, along with a matte.

TAG TIMES

Five seconds

Make sure your narration ends :05 before the end of the promo (no matter what its length) to allow stations to add local day and time information. During this time your title graphic should be clearly visible (see "Visual Requirements" below). Five seconds is a standard that all stations have built their tags around, so violate it at your own risk. The only promos not requiring this tag time are :10 promos, which are usually long-lead teases ("Coming this fall", etc.).

Keep the music/sfx at bed level during tag time

When leaving the last :05 free of narration for local tune-in information, don't increase the level of the remaining audio (music, sfx) to compensate. The local tag voice will go there. So leave the audio at a level (often called "bed level") that suits adding a voice over it.

VISUAL REQUIREMENTS

Keep title graphics out of the lower third of the screen.

During the tag time (the last five seconds of the promo), the show title graphic should be clearly visible, but the title font must assume no more than the upper two-thirds of the screen. Many stations use the lower third of the screen to superimpose local day and time information. So during the tag time, keep all critical graphics (such as show title and closed captioning bugs) and critical imagery out of the lower third. Make sure what's left in the lower third can be covered up if necessary. If applicable, inform your graphic designer at the earliest stages of the project.

Bad Example

Good Example

Keep the lower right corner clean the entire time

In addition to the lower third requirement, keep the lower right corner of the screen free of critical content for the entire duration of the promo. Many stations use a logo bug throughout their station breaks. Use common sense -- imagine a bug in the corner when you edit, and get rid of anything that will fight with it.

Bad Example

Good Example

No shrinkbacks

Instead of using a lower third graphic to add local tune-in information, some stations tag their promos by shrinking back the entire promo image over a graphic background. For this reason, avoid using a shrinkback effect of your own in the title treatment of the promos you produce. If you shrink your graphics into a box to make it lower-third safe, and the local station shrinks it again to reveal local tag information, then you have two of the same effects on top of each other.

Bad Example

Good Example

Cut to black

Cut all spots to black at the end. Local stations can do their own fade after adding their graphic elements. The head of the promo can cut or fade in at the producer's discretion.

CONTENT REQUIREMENTS

Narration no-nos

Do not include the following language in a promo:

	Any mention of the producer
	Any mention of the presenting station
	Any mention of the funder, unless the funder is included in the legal name of the program

CONTENT REQUREMENTS

Use the word "NEXT" with caution

Do not use the word "NEXT" by itself. This implies that the show will immediately follow the station break. If you use the word, make sure it is part of a general tune-in phrase such as "next time on..." or "on the next episode of..."

Avoid specific airtime language.

Do not specify or even imply any specific air date, including the word "LIVE". It limits your spot to the premiere broadcast. If you wish to acknowledge an air date for a special program with wide common carriage, then you must provide additional non-dated versions of the promos to accommodate different airtimes and repeat broadcasts.

CONTENT GUIDELINES

While some subject matter is inherently provocative, apply discretion to ensure your promos adhere to prevailing standards of decency. This will encourage use of your promo. For example, replace overtly sexual shots with less explicit material. Replace violent scenes with shots that are less literal. Do your best to make compelling, provocative promos without using shots that some might find offensive. The more universally acceptable your promo is, the more it will air.

Flags

A flag is a warning to PBS member stations that a promo has sensitive content. They are specified on the promo reel rundowns that accompany promo reel satellite feeds. The flag categories are sex, violence, and language. There is an additional distinction between real and dramatic violence. The flags are:

Sex:
	EXPLICIT SEXUAL CONTENT
	SEXUAL SITUATIONS
	NUDITY

Violence:
	DRAMATIC VIOLENCE
	REAL VIOLENCE
	DRAMATIC DEAD BODY
	REAL DEAD BODY

Language:
	OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE
	RACIAL/HATE CRIME SLURS
	THREATS OF VIOLENCE
	SEXUAL INNUENDO

Many promos will be flagged, including ones most would consider fairly harmless. Many of them are harmless for certain age groups. Don't create spots so watered down that they don't get flagged, especially if the show has adult content that is integral to the promo. A flag isn't a punishment. For continuity and traffic people at stations, flags encourage proper placement of the promos.

Provide alternate versions if you wish

For programs of an adult nature, you may create an additional, edgier version of a promo if you think it makes a compelling case for watching. This would be in addition to the softer, more acceptable version. Stations can choose which versions to use in appropriate time slots.

TAPES AND LABELS

Send PBS the first generation master

	Send PBS the master and keep a clone or dub for your files.
	Include one copy of each promo (not two, as required for programs).
	To simplify storage and retrieval, try to put all promos for a program or series on the same reel. The only good reason to break them up is when you have a multi-part series, and you wish to send in the generic/early episode promos to make the deadline while you still work on spots for later episodes.

Deliver promos to:
PBS Creative Services
2100 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202-3785
Telephone: (703) 739-5068

Slate each cut

On the tape you deliver to PBS, slate each cut with:
	Cut number
	Program title/NOLA code (if known)
	Episode number or Generic
	Length of spot/tag time (example: :30/:05)
	Producing entity
	Ten-second countdown

Also add any information that helps us sort through your reel, such as variations of the same spot (dated or clean, etc.).

Deliver on a PBS broadcast format

Acceptable tape formats (in order of preference) are Digital Beta, Beta SP, D2, D3, and, if necessary, one-inch. Do not deliver the promos on the same reel as the program. Radio spots should be delivered on DAT, or may be delivered on the same format as your video promo.

Clearly label the tape and tape box

	Clearly label the tape and tape box with "PROMOS" to help distinguish it from program tapes.
	Include the program title and episode number (if applicable).
	For tapes with many cuts, it helps to include a paper rundown of all cuts on the reel.

Include a VHS screener

Send a VHS screening dub (visible time code is optional) of the delivery reel. This helps PBS catalog and feed your spots more quickly.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

All PBS programs must meet the technical requirements as set forth in the PBS Technical Operating Specifications (TOS) Manual.

ONLINE AND ENHANCED TV

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Interactive at (703) 739-5127

PROMOTION OF ONLINE AND ENHANCED TV

The PBS Web Production Manual at www.pbs.org/producers/webmanual/ has more detailed information about developing acceptable Web content for pbs.org

If a Program Web site resides on the pbs.org server, PBS encourages an on-air webtag promoting the Web site at the end of program content and/or via Web markers strategically placed throughout the program. Programs may only include an on-air webtag and/or Web markers if the PBS Interactive department has cleared the content of the Web site in advance. Enhanced TV data, triggers, and targeted platforms must be approved via consultation with PBS Interactive.

INTERACTIVE WEB TAG ANNOUNCEMENT CLEARANCE FORM

Due no later than 8 weeks prior to the first day of month of broadcast

Language and general presentation of an Interactive Web Tag Announcement Clearance Form for on-air tags, and/or Web markers MUST be determined in consultation with PBS Program Management and must be approved by PBS prior to inclusion in the program. An example form is included in the Forms section of this manual.

DESIGNING AN ON-AIR WEBTAG

Silent cards over a static and/or black background are NOT acceptable

An on-air webtag must be engaging, mirror the production values of the program, and cohere with the tail sequence of the program package. Successful on-air tags educate viewers as to the companion material available on the Web site versus promoting a generic Web address that doesn't convey the type of content or interactivity available.

PBS encourages the producer to utilize footage and/or graphic material from the program. Specific program or series title graphics may also be included.

pbs.org and pbskids.org are the only Web sites that may be referenced on-air

Web site on-air tags and markers may NOT identify or refer to any other computer online service or non-PBS-hosted Web site, whether by name, telephone number, or postal or electronic address. No e-mail addresses are permitted. The producer may request a PBS e-mail address where applicable for interactive purposes.

All Web site on-air tags must contain the following elements:
	"pbs-dot-org" must be mentioned in the voiceover
	"PBS.org" must appear fonted on-screen

OR
	"pbs kids-dot-org" must be mentioned in the voiceover
	"pbskids.org" must appear fonted on-screen

PBS encourages producers to incorporate creative language into the on-air announcement

Sample on-air webtags:

"WINSTON CHURCHILL continues. Listen to historic speeches; track the events of WWII; and chat with Holocaust survivors in our forum. Set your browser to pbs-dot-org"

"Didn't catch all of the ingredients? Look up today's recipes - and more - on the CLEVER CHEF Web site. The address is pbs-dot-org"

"Dive into UNDERWATER WONDERS. You can find us at pbs-dot-org"

A more generic, templated audio of the on-air tag:

"To learn more about this program [or insert program/series title], visit pbs-dot-org (or the Internet address on your screen)"

"To learn more about (insert program subject matter), visit pbs-dot-org (or the Internet address on your screen)"

PLACEMENT AND DURATION OF AN ON-AIR WEBTAG

On-air webtags should be 15 seconds in length

The on-air tag should be placed at the end of program content and before the closing production credits, funding credits and on-air offers.

WEB MARKERS

No more than 4-5 webmarkers during a 60-minute program

Web markers reference additional online or interactive content during the program as a way to effectively demonstrate the integration of TV/interactive content and service the growing audience of telewebbers (users of interactive TV devices, such as WebTV, and simultaneous TV and PC users).

Use brief informational text (ie: "follow the campaign timeline," or "learn more about prison life")

Producers must utilize PBS supplied Web marker graphic material as their template. However, markers may be customized to fit with the program's lower thirds and overall graphic look. The appearance of all Web markers must be cleared in advance by PBS Program Management.

Informational text should not extend too far into bottom right corner so as not to obscure station bugs

Producers that utilize Web markers must supply a rundown as to where within the body of the program the markers appear, along with a description and URL of the online content to which the marker refers.

Any Web content referenced via a marker should be easily accessible from the program's home page.

ENHANCED TV DATA AND TRIGGERS

At least seventeen weeks before the broadcast date, PBS Interactive must approve the use of all embedded PBS URLs or other data in advance of program lock. Enhanced TV producers must supply a rundown as to where within the body of the program the enhancements appear, along with a description and/or URL of the content. All Internet data resides on the PBS server. TV content should be designed for legibility from a couch versus a 2-foot PC experience.

ADDITIONAL INTERACTIVE CONTENT INFORMATION

Accessibility and Maintenance during term of broadcast rights

The program's companion Web site and/or Enhanced TV content must be accessible and maintained for the entire PBS rights period of the program. PBS Interactive must clear any major additions, revisions, or relaunches to the Web site or content in advance during the rights period. In the event a Web site or Interactive Content Announcement must be removed from the program, the producer will be responsible for all costs associated with editing and re-feeding the program.

Point of Entry for Web Site

pbs.org or pbskids.org must be used as the point of entry for access to online companion sites. The Web site must reside exclusively on the PBS server.

Link to the Producer Site

PBS will provide a link to the presenting station site and/or producer site (if any), within the program Web site residing on the PBS server. Promotional Web information (if any) on the station and/or producer server must provide a link back to the PBS site.

Delivery of Web Site or Enhanced TV content to PBS

A complete content outline must be submitted to PBS Interactive for review and acceptance at least 17 weeks prior to the broadcast of the program. We strongly recommend notification of your interest in developing a Web site as early in the program development process as possible.

PBS Interactive Strategies, Policies and Technical Specifications

Producers must deliver the completed PBS Web content to PBS Interactive at least 3 weeks prior to broadcast airdate. This content must adhere to the PBS Interactive policies, procedures and technical specifications posted at www.pbs.org/producers/webmanual/. PBS Interactive will establish an FTP directory on a PBS development server for the initial posting and on-going maintenance of the site.

Current policies, procedures and technical specifications are posted within the PBS Web Production Manual, located at www.pbs.org/producers/webmanual/. The Web Production Manual also includes strategic overviews, backgrounders, and subscription information for a free monthly newsletter from PBS Interactive.

EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

Research has shown that K-12 teachers rate PBS as their #1 source of video for classroom use; in addition, pbs.org has been recognized as one of the top three Web destinations for K-12 teachers. Such evidence, combined with ongoing feedback from teachers, tells us that educators have come to expect engaging, credible resources of the highest quality from PBS.

Expand your audience and better serve educators and students by creating compelling learning experiences via teacher guides, outreach activities, lesson plans, and other content for the classroom. We strongly encourage producers to distribute educational resources online. In addition to being a cost-effective means of reaching large numbers of teachers, online distribution allows for greater interactivity in your educational materials. It also qualifies your program for additional promotional opportunities within pbs.org.

If you're planning to develop a companion Web site or interactive TV elements for your television program, why not include teacher resources as part of the package? For more information about creating classroom content, visit www.pbs.org/producers/webmanual/.

ON-AIR OFFERS

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Program Underwriting Policy at (703) 739-5291 or PBS Program Management at (703) 739-5010

PROGRAM-RELATED GOODS AND SERVICES

	Videos
	Books
	Transcripts
	CDs
	Other Program Specific Material

PBS Guidelines for On-Air Announcements available at www.pbs.org/insidepbs/guidelines/index_onair.html

Certain related goods and services may be mentioned or offered for sale at the end of the program. The appropriateness, content, and placement of any program-related offers are subject to the "PBS Guidelines for On-Air Announcements Promoting Program-Related Goods and Services." The guidelines spell out the types of items generally acceptable for an on-air announcement, the language and visuals to use for these announcements, and the options for placement.

All on-air offers of program-related goods and services must be approved by PBS Program Underwriting Policy (PUP). The deadline for approval is 10 weeks prior to broadcast and prior to final picture lock.

OFFEROR CRITERIA AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Only a nonprofit producer, presenter, or distributor of the program can make an offer

The offeror must be identified in the offer announcement

PBS may ask for verification of nonprofit status.

The offeror ensures that the item will be available through that phone number and/or address for the duration of the broadcast rights period. The offeror must own the item being offered and accept responsibility for any difficulties encountered by viewers. The offeror must abide by the On-Air Offer Guidelines including the revenue share requirements, and report on revenue to PUP at 6-month intervals as required.

ON-AIR OFFER ANNOUNCEMENT

Split screen offer treatments are the most ideal format

Offers generally appear only once at the end of the program. If a program has a mid-program break approved by Program Management, the same offer might appear at the intermission.

Although several options are available, PBS highly prefers a split-screen treatment to reduce on-air clutter and maximize the time available for program content.

ACCEPTABLE OFFER PLACEMENTS WITH RESTRICTION

Split-Screen with Production Credits

1.	Offer can be no longer than 15 seconds
2.	Program content should end prior to the offer (if program content extends into the production credits, for example).
3.	Offer should not begin until production credits run at least 17 seconds to allow for local station voice over announcements.
4.	Addresses are not required, and are particularly discouraged for split-screen offers.

End of Program and before Production Credits

1.	Offer can be no longer than 15 seconds
2.	Dip to black before offer announcement.
3.	An offer may appear immediately following the program content, the webtag announcement, AND next time tease (if present).

End of Production Credits and before the PBS Logo

1.	Offer can be no longer than 15 seconds
2.	An offer at the end of the program may not appear between production credits and the underwriting credit pod.
3.	Producer/Presenter identification and/or logos must precede the offer.

Post Logo

Offer can be no longer than 30 seconds

CONTENT OF ON-AIR OFFER ANNOUNCEMENT

Hosts or talent from the program may not be used in the on-air offer announcement.

Web addresses are NOT permitted

No credit cards, delivery services or shopping services may be named

Offer announcements should be consistent with the tone and substance of the program. Offers are to be informational and not promotional in nature, e.g., no calls to action. Incidental appearance on the item offered, however, is permitted (e.g., on cover of book or home video). For examples of effective on-air offers, please refer to the Producer's Packaging Reel available from PBS Program Management.

Audio must include:
1.	Title of item (preferably include program title)
2.	Type of item
3.	Phone number (may be voiced only once)
4.	"...or write to the address on your screen." (if address is included)

Video must include:
1.	Title of item (again, be specific and include the program title)
2.	Type of item (product may be depicted or fonted, e.g., "audio cassette")
3.	Phone number and possibly address (but no address in split screen offers)
4.	"Offer Made by XYZ" (this disclosure is required by law)

Price of the item is also helpful but is not required.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Program Management at (703) 739-5010

WHO CAN GET A PRODUCTION CREDIT?

Program funders and PBS staff may not be acknowledged or thanked in the production credit roll

Production credits should be comprised of individuals and organizations that have direct involvement in the production of the program. Any credit that is not directly related to the production of the program should not be included. Please make sure to clear any questionable/unusual production credits with the PBS Program Management department.

TOP-OF-SHOW CREDITS AND FREQUENCY OF CREDITS

Only individuals can be given artistic credit at the top of show

Maximum = 4 top-of-show credits

Up to four artistic credits may be placed at the beginning of program content. Crediting companies or production entities is prohibited in the top-of-show credits - only individuals may be credited.

Artistic credits that appear at the top of the program may not be repeated at the production credit sequence at the tail of the program.

Prohibited top-of-show credits
1.	Any station or consortium identification or logo
2.	A production (or presentation) of XYZ Films (or station WXXX)
3.	Presented by ABC Productions
4.	Distributed by Viacom

Acceptable top-of-show credits
1.	A film by Mike Smith
2.	Mike Smith, Producer (Director, Narrator, Writer)
3.	Produced (Directed, Narrated, Written) By Mike Smith

PRODUCTION CREDIT BED APPEARANCE

Production credit scrolls or cards over a static background are not acceptable

Credits must be engaging, cohere with the tail packaging sequence, and mirror the high production values of the program.

Producers must obtain approval from PBS for the treatment of the production credit bed in advance. PBS reserves the right to require a producer to restructure or redesign the production credit bed.

PBS recommends the use of split-screen production credits when products are offered

PBS strongly encourages the use of split-screens in the presence of additional packaging elements such as: Web Site Announcements, next episode teases, and On-Air Offers. Please see the sample split-screen treatment in the Format and Packaging section of Policies & Specifications.

In situations where there are no packaging elements to incorporate into the split-screen, or a split-screen cannot be accommodated, background beds must include continuing content, additional footage, outtakes, or other creative credit treatments. Please consult with PBS Program Management on specific design.

DURATION AND INCLUSION REQUIREMENTS

DURATION

Maximum production credit beds:
	Programs 60 minutes or longer = 45-second production credit bed
	Programs: 30 minutes = 30-second production credit bed

Special length extension: on programs of 60 minutes or longer with the production credits presented in a split screen with two or more elements (on-air offer, web tag or preview) included in the credit bed, credits may run up to a maximum of :60.

All of the above timings include producer and presenter credits copyright and producer disclaimer. Also, any special thanks, original production funder and fiscal sponsor credits should be included in timings.

PRODUCER AND PRESENTER CREDITS

See the Producer and Presenter section of Policies & Specifications.”

COPYRIGHT

The copyright notice must appear at the end of the credit scroll and may not exceed 3 seconds

A copyright notice must be included on all PBS broadcast programs. The notice should consist of a copyright symbol, the year of copyright, followed by the name of the copyright holder.

Generally, the producer, co-producers and/or presenters hold copyright. If the copyright holder is a station, the legal licensee name is appropriate for copyright notice.

Underwriters cannot hold or share copyright to the program. If any other entity holds or shares copyright, Program Underwriting Policy must approve the arrangement.

The copyright notice in the production credit roll must be the same as the copyright holder indicated on the Program Acceptance Agreement (PAA). The video and the PAA must correspond.

PRODUCER DISCLAIMER

A producer disclaimer must be included on all Factual programs

The producer disclaimer may appear directly before or after the copyright notice and can appear in font (hold for 3 seconds) or voice over. The disclaimer should read: "This program was produced by XXXX, which is solely responsible for its content."

STATION VOICE OVER OPPORTUNITY

First 17 seconds must be available for station voice-over opportunity

Individual public television stations may use up to :15 seconds of production credits to run voiceovers promoting the upcoming program. If non-editable audio appears within the production credit bed (next time promos, on-air offers, critical content, etc.) please be sure to leave the first :17 window for station voice over.

SPECIAL THANKS, ORIGINAL PRODUCTION FUNDERS, FISCAL SPONSORS AND CLOSED CAPTION FUNDERS

SPECIAL THANKS

In-kind goods and services, or general production assistance provided to the producer at no or nominal cost, may be acknowledged in the production credits when important and necessary to do so.

Special Thanks, Original Production Funders and Fiscal Sponsor credit all apply towards total time allotted for Production Credits

Special Thanks credits must:
1.	Acknowledge only those in-kind goods and services that were critical in the production of that program (as opposed to the series); may identify the actual product or service provided. "(item/service) provided by…" "Production assistance provided by…"
2.	Appear as text in video only.
3.	Appear within the normal production credits (limited to 30, 45, or 60 seconds total)
4.	Be consistent with all other production credits in timing, style, font, color and background

No logos or special fonts

Special Thanks credits must NOT:
1.	Incorporate or display the donor's corporate or brand logo(s) or any other identifying information.
2.	Acknowledge in-kind goods and services of an underwriter of the program or series.
3.	Leave the impression that product placements were arranged. (see below)

UNDERWRITERS VS. ORIGINAL PRODUCTION FUNDERS

Restrictions listed under Special Thanks apply to Original Production Funders

If there are original production underwriters (in the case of an acquisition or for programs whose rights were re-upped), they may appear in the production credit roll under the heading: "Original production funding provided by…"

FISCAL SPONSOR

Acknowledgement of fiscal sponsors is NOT required

A fiscal sponsor is a nonprofit entity, which administers donations to the producer or production entity for a small fee or percentage.

If a fiscal sponsor provided assistance to the producer, the fiscal sponsor may be acknowledged in the production credits as follows:

"Fiscal Sponsor --- xxxx"

This acknowledgment is not required and is discouraged unless deemed necessary to do so. If the fiscal sponsor provided any other assistance including cash, outreach and promotion or station relations, please provide a mission/purpose statement to Program Underwriting Policy.

CLOSED CAPTION FUNDERS

Acknowledged in closed captions NOT production credits

Closed captioning services should be acknowledged in the closed captions and not in the production credit roll or underwriting sequence.

CREDITS FOR PROGRAMS WITH A TURNKEY BREAK

Production credits can only appear at the end of programs.

Production credits on two-hour programs with an intermission or a turnkey break may never appear at the end of the first hour. Production credits must be combined into a single sequence at the tail of the program. Please consult with PBS Program Management on specific treatment.

PRODUCT PLACEMENT

PBS has the right to have the producer remove gratuitous appearances of products or services appearing in a program.

Occasionally commercial or brand name products or services appear in program content. Such depictions should be treated carefully or PBS will ask the producer to edit the program. If the producer or anyone connected to the production accepts cash or other valuable gratuities from the manufacturer of the product or the provider of the services or any of their agents, the producer must reveal such arrangements to PBS.

If an underwriter of the program offers a product or service, the producers are cautioned to scrupulously avoid the deliberate or gratuitous appearance of the underwriter's goods or services in a way that draws attention to or features that product or service. Producers need not substitute a competitor's product for those of an underwriter, but must use care to ensure that any appearance of an underwriter's product is and appears to be purely incidental.

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Program Management at (703) 739-5010

POLICY ON PRODUCER IDENTIFICATION

Producers and/or presenters may not be credited as underwriters of the program

The producer and presenter credit policy was developed to strengthen the local identity of PBS member stations and streamline entry into the program. For your information, we have requested the voluntary observance of these guidelines by other public television program distributors in the interests of fairness and on-air consistency.

In the interest of public disclosure and editorial accountability, the producer or presenter of a PBS program must be identified at the end of the program. Any co-producers or co-presenters must also be acknowledged. The video should also match the producers/presenter listed on PAA.

PLACEMENT AND DURATION

No producer/presenter credits at the top of show

Producer, producer consortia, and production company logos may not appear at the beginning of PBS programs but may appear as part of the program closing.

Each producer/presenter identification = 3 seconds maximum

The producer identification may not exceed three seconds. If there are two or more producers or co-producers, a maximum of six seconds is allowed for all. For example, if there are 3 producers for a program and all must be identified, then each producer will only receive a 2 second identification credit (totaling 6 seconds of producer/presenter credits).

6 seconds maximum allowed for all producer/presenter identification.

PRODUCER IDENTIFICATIONS ARE TO BE INCLUDED WITHIN THE TIME ALLOTTED FOR CLOSING PRODUCTION CREDITS.

STYLE

Producer/Presenter credits may NOT carry voiceover

The program may identify the producer and/or presenter in several ways

Production/Presenter entities may NOT be credited at the top-of-the-show

The style and manner of identification is at the producer's discretion. Acknowledgement is in video only. Audio may include music, but no voice over. If the producer or presenter is a television station, station channel numbers may NOT be included in the identification.

1.	The producer may indicate itself in the closing production credits by name only; or
2.	The producer may elect to use its logo in the production credits; or
3.	The producer may include an animated logo identification that is separate from the credit roll. In the latter case, the separate animated logo's time must be included in the time allowed for the total production credit roll. [i.e. For an hour long program without a split screen credit treatment, the production credit roll may run :42 seconds with a :03 second animated logo or the roll may run :39 seconds with a 6 second combined animated logo(s)]; or
4.	The producer may integrate the producer identification into the underwriting credits -- such that the script might read, "This program was produced by WAAA and made possible by a grant from the XYZ Foundation."

Note: Options 1 and 3 in combination is also permitted. It would also be acceptable to display the name of the producer and a co-producer in the credit roll ("produced by WAAA in association with XYZ"), in addition to including an animated producer logo placed elsewhere in the closing sequence.

CO-PRODUCTIONS

1.	A XYZ Production in association with ABC; or
2.	A XYZ Production in cooperation with (or with the help of) ABC; or
3.	A XYZ Production with the assistance of ABC; or
4.	A XYZ Production.

If more than one entity produced and/or presented the program or series, acknowledgement of that relationship and contribution is required. Varying levels of collaboration exist and may be indicated by the following (with the closest collaboration indicated by option 1 and decreasing down to option 4.

Separate credit to the second entity would appear in the production credits under Special Thanks: "Editorial Assistance provided by ABC..."

The type of credit for co-productions should also correspond with contractual obligations with PBS. If the nature of the credit is unclear, please consult with PBS Editorial and Schedule Management to determine appropriate credit.

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Business Affairs at (703) 739-5296

Agreements between PBS and producers/presenters are made on a case-by-case basis because of individual needs and circumstances. However, the following basic terms apply to all.

RELEASES/LICENSE TERM

A "release" is defined as unlimited plays during any consecutive seven (7) day period.

For each Program distributed by PBS a Producer will grant to PBS a specific number of "releases" over a specific time period. The exact number of releases and the length of the license term may vary from program to program but PBS typically requires six releases over a four year period beginning with the initial public television release.

PBS TELEVISION RIGHTS

Producer must grant to PBS the exclusive PBS Television Rights in the Program(s).

"PBS Television Rights" are defined as the right to duplicate the program(s), and to authorize others to do so, and to distribute the program(s) by any means for the following uses:

1.	Broadcast by public television stations
2.	Cablecast on a noncommercial, sustaining basis on cable channels programmed by PBS or public television stations
3.	Transmission on PBS-branded direct-to-home satellite services; and
4.	Exhibition on a noncommercial, sustaining basis via commercial broadcast channels, cable services, and satellite services in areas unserved by a public television station in the PBS License Area.

PBS's exclusivity shall apply to all other forms of broadcast, cablecast, satellite transmission, video-on-demand, video dial tone, and pay-per-view, and shall apply to all versions of the program(s) in any language, and to all display and transmission standards, now known or hereinafter devised, including, but not limited to standard television, high definition television, digital television, and advanced television.

Theatrical releases prior to and during the PBS License Term are permitted only with the prior permission of PBS. In addition, PBS generally requires a period of exclusivity against any such distribution in Canada prior to and within a prescribed time period following the initial PBS release.

EDUCATIONAL OFF-AIR RECORD RIGHTS

1 year from each broadcast is standard

As a condition of PBS distribution, Producer must grant to PBS the right to authorize off-air recording of the program(s) for educational purposes in the Preschool through Grade-12 market.

ONLINE RIGHTS

PBS.org is the only URL permitted to be shown, promoted or referenced as part of any program broadcast.

Producers must grant to PBS, at a minimum, the non-exclusive right to promote the program(s) online throughout the broadcast and video license term and to use all program related promotional materials to that end (see Program Promotion Rights below). Additional online rights may be negotiated depending on the particular programs.

OTHER RIGHTS

PBS may also require institutional (audio-visual) and/or home video and other rights (including, but not limited to, audio recording and soundtrack rights, electronic version, merchandising, and/or publishing rights) depending on the particular programs.

PROGRAM PROMOTION RIGHTS

Producer must grant to PBS the right to use and authorize others to use the program and series titles, the names, voices, likenesses and biographies of all persons or characters appearing on, or performing services in connection with, the programs, including the right to excerpt portions of the program or program element (e.g., opens, animations, music, packaging elements, etc.) of no longer than three (3) minutes in aggregate length, for the purpose of advertising, promoting and publicizing the program or for institutional promotion in any medium (including online).

WARRANTIES AND INDEMNITIES

Producers must agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless PBS (and those authorized by PBS to use the programs) from and against any and all claims, damages, costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, that may result from any authorized use of the program(s) by PBS.

BROADCAST INSURANCE

Producers must secure a policy of liability insurance (errors and omissions) that is acceptable to PBS, which insures the producer against copyright infringement, defamation, invasion of privacy, and unauthorized use of titles, ideas or characters unless otherwise prohibited by state or local laws. The policy must name PBS and all public television stations as additional insureds during the program rights period. The limit of liability should be $1,000,000 for each occurrence and $3,000,000 in the aggregate, with a deductible, which is affordable to the producer.

ABOUT THE MUSIC CUE AND VISUAL ARTS CUE SHEETS

Completed cue sheets should be sent to: PBS Copyright/Legal, 2100 Crystal Drive
Arlington, VA 22202-3785

In order to comply with the terms of its agreements with music rights organizations on behalf of public television and with Federal regulations, PBS maintains music cue sheets for all its programs. Music cue sheets are due from the producer or presenter before the show's initial broadcast (or, for a live show, as soon after the initial broadcast as possible). In certain, limited circumstances producers must also submit Visual Arts Cue Sheets to PBS. Examples of Music Cue Sheets, Visual Arts Cue Sheets and the instructions for completing these forms are located in the Forms section of this site.

For more information or for blank cue sheets, contact PBS' copyright administrator at 703/739-5090.

DIGITAL TELEVISION (DTV) REQUIREMENTS

For questions regarding this section, contact DTV Strategic Services Group at (703) 739-3997

WHAT IS HIGH DEFINITION (HD)?

High Definition is defined as picture formats 1080i and 720p/60 and Dolby AC 3 Surround Sound. During the transition period of undefined length, PBS will accept programs as high definition in 1080i and 720p formats. HD programs are programs with 700 or more lines of resolution. For example, Super 16mm may be acceptable as a high definition acquisition format if properly transferred by a high-resolution telecine. Producers should consult with PBS regarding their high definition production plans.

Stereo will be the minimum audio requirement for HD programs. Programs produced as HD programs will be subject to all requirements as set forth here and in PBS' "Technical Operating Specifications" Manual for standard NTSC programs.

HD program submissions must be submitted on the HD CAM tape format.

WHAT IS DIGITAL WIDESCREEN (WS)?

The ATSC standard supports the 16x9 aspect ratio for both high definition and standard definition programs. Standard definition programs are programs with less than 700 lines of resolution. A digital widescreen program is a program with less than 700 lines of resolution and an aspect ratio of 16x9. These programs will carry the designation of WS.

PBS will accept WS programs on anamorphic masters.Anamorphic refers to a process by which a 16x9 image is captured and stored on a 4x3 recording device. In a full screen 4x3 display these images will be compressed horizontally. WS (anamorphic) programs must be submitted on Digital Beta videotapes.

Note that Letterbox is an NTSC process for WS presentations and is NOT accepted as WS for DTV.

Stereo will be the minimum audio requirement for digital widescreen programs. Programs produced as digital widescreen programs will be subject to all requirements as set forth here and in PBS' "Technical Operating Specifications" Manual for standard NTSC programs.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Producers are also responsible for providing a standard NTSC version (master and back up) of their high definition or digital widescreen program.

Producer will be responsible for all costs associated with delivering both the High Definition or Digital Widescreen version and the NTSC version of the program.

The aspect ratio of the Standard NTSC version of the program shall be either a letterbox image in 4 by 3 display, or a 4 by 3 full screen display.

When submitting a DTV program that contains 4 x 3 footage, producers are required to take additional steps (and/or edits) to insure that the aspect ratio is maintained on both the DTV and NTSC versions. In other words, when 4 x 3 images are edited into an HD or WS program the image remains in the 4 x 3 aspect ratio (vertical black bands on either side of the image), rather than stretched to fill the 16 x 9 frame. The 4 x 3 images will need to be edited separately onto the NTSC version, so the images are full-screen. Direct conversion to NTSC will result in black bands on all 4 sides of 4 x 3 content.

Producer will be responsible for all costs associated with delivering both the HD or WS version AND the NTSC version of the program.

In most cases, the NTSC version and the HD or WS version are fed simultaneously.

SPECIAL PACKAGING

All HD and digital widescreen programs will require special PBS supplied digital packaging elements for inclusion on both the HD/WS and NTSC (standard) versions of the program.

Those packaging elements are digital identifiers (:10 each) that identify the program as HD or WS and will be the first element on the program(s).

Please contact Program Management regarding the treatment of these elements. Note-the digital open will deduct :10 seconds from your total program running time on both versions.

VIDEOTAPE TECHNICAL EVALUATION

Videotape Technical Evaluation forms are available in PBS' "Technical Operations Specifications Manual".

High definition and WS programs will also require a completed Videotape Technical Evaluation form to be submitted along with the HD or WS program master. In addition, the producer will be responsible for the cost associated with the PBS Technical Evaluation that will be performed on the HD or WS version master.

DATA STANDARDS AND PROMOTIONAL SPOTS

Data Standards

Data standards are still in committee at the ATSC. As those standards are approved they will be incorporated into the Technical Operating Standards as part of the Data standards for high definition programs.

On-Air Promotional Spots

Currently, PBS is not requiring that producers submit stand-alone, episodic and series promotional spots in HD or WS. However, PBS will soon require that promos for HD and WS programs be provided in both HD and WS as well as for the Standard NTSC versions.

CAPTIONS

The DTV standard for captioning is 708B. All DTV program submissions must include 708B captions. HD captions are to be recorded per SMPTE 334 on the videotape. WS programs must have 608 captions on line 21.

TV PARENTAL GUIDELINES

For questions regarding this section, contact PBS Program Operations at (703) 739-5010

RATING A PROGRAM AND PLACING THE RATINGS ICON

Producers are not responsible for placing the ratings icon.

Please alert PBS to any program content that may affect a program rating.

As a program distributor, PBS is responsible for rating programs fed as a part of our service to member stations. In order to determine each program's rating, Program Operations will apply the ratings after consultation with the program producer or distributor and the PBS program screeners. PBS will superimpose the rating icon at time of distribution.

The icon will appear in the upper left corner of the screen for 15 seconds at the beginning of each program (or for 15 seconds immediately following underwriting credit pod. These ratings will be included in program listings, schedules and on other promotional and operational materials.

TV PARENTAL RATINGS

TV-Y All Children.

This program is designed to be appropriate for all children. Whether animated or live-action, the themes and elements in this program are specifically designed for a very young audience, including children from ages 2-6. This program is not expected to frighten younger children.

TV-Y7 Directed to Older Children.

This program is designed for children age 7 and above. It may be more appropriate for children who have acquired the developmental skills needed to distinguish between make-believe and reality. Themes and elements in this program may include mild fantasy violence or comedic violence, or may frighten children under the age of 7. Therefore, parents may wish to consider the suitability of this program for their very young children. Note: For those programs where fantasy violence may be more intense or more combative than other programs in this category, such programs will be designated TV-Y7-FV.

TV-G General Audience.

Most parents would find this program suitable for all ages. Although this rating does not signify a program designed specifically for children, most parents may let younger children watch this program unattended. It contains little or no violence, no strong language and little or no sexual dialogue or situations.

TV-PG Parental Guidance Suggested.

This program may contain some material that parents may find unsuitable for younger children. Many parents may want to watch it with their younger children. The theme itself may call for parental guidance and/or the program contains one or more of the following: moderate violence (V), some sexual situations (S), infrequent coarse language (L), or some suggestive sexual dialogue (D).

TV-14 Parents Strongly Cautioned.

This program contains some material that many parents would find unsuitable for children under 14 years of age. Parents are strongly urged to exercise greater care in monitoring this program and are cautioned against letting children under the age of 14 watch unattended. This program contains one or more of the following: intense violence (V), intense sexual situations (S), strong coarse language (L) or intensely suggestive dialogue (D).

TV-MA Mature Audience Only.

This program is specifically designed to be viewed by adults and therefore may be unsuitable for children under 17.This program contains one or more of the following: graphic violence (V), explicit sexual activity (S), or crude and indecent language (L).

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This manual is a set of "guidelines" and should be treated as such. PBS staff members will continue to consult with producers and provide direct guidance on issues concerning final delivery of programs. Please read through the Red Book carefully and make sure that the members of your production team familiarize themselves with the relevant sections. Updates to the Red Book will occur when information or policies change.

 
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