What is KERA-TV and where is it licensed?

KERA-TV is a PBS member television station licensed to Dallas, Texas, serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. It operates on channel 13. PBS, or the Public Broadcasting Service, is a major provider of educational and cultural programming in the United States.

KERA-TV is owned by North Texas Public Broadcasting, Inc. This is a non-profit organization dedicated to operating public media services in the region.

What other broadcast stations are considered sister stations to KERA-TV?

KERA-TV has sister stations in radio: NPR member station KERA (90.1 FM), adult album alternative station KKXT (91.7 FM), and classical music station WRR (101.1 FM), which is operated under a management services agreement with the City of Dallas. NPR is a national public radio network known for its news and talk programming.

Where are the studios and transmitter for KERA-TV located?

The stations share studios on Harry Hines Boulevard in Dallas, and KERA-TV's transmitter is located in Cedar Hill, Texas. A transmitter is the equipment used to broadcast the television signal.

What is the meaning behind the call sign KERA?

The call sign KERA is said to represent a "new era in broadcasting." Call signs are unique identifiers assigned to broadcast stations.

What is the virtual channel number for KERA-TV?

KERA-TV's virtual channel is 13. The virtual channel is the number viewers typically use to tune into the station on their televisions.

What is the physical digital channel for KERA-TV?

KERA-TV broadcasts on digital channel 14, which is in the UHF spectrum. UHF, or Ultra High Frequency, is a range of radio frequencies used for television broadcasting.

What was the original intended use for VHF channel 13 in the Dallas-Fort Worth market?

The VHF channel 13 allocation in the Dallas-Fort Worth market was originally reserved by the FCC for non-commercial educational use. The FCC, or Federal Communications Commission, is the U.S. government agency responsible for regulating broadcast communications.

Which educational institutions and organizations were involved in the initial application for channel 13?

Southern Methodist University initially applied for the channel, but later, the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) partnered with the nonprofit corporation Area Education Television Foundation, Inc. (which evolved into North Texas Public Broadcasting) to apply for the allocation. A nonprofit corporation is an organization that operates for a purpose other than making a profit.

What were some of the initial programming plans for KERA-TV?

Programming was scheduled to include Spanish-language instructional programming for elementary school students. This type of programming is designed to supplement classroom learning.

What financial challenges did the Area Education Television Foundation face in its early stages?

The foundation had difficulty meeting its fundraising goals, being approximately $265,000 short of its $890,000 target to cover the first two years of broadcasting operations. Fundraising is the process of collecting money for a specific cause or organization.

Where were KERA-TV's original broadcast facilities located?

KERA-TV originally operated from temporary studio facilities at the Davis Building in downtown Dallas, using two portable buildings designed to resemble a schoolhouse. Temporary facilities are often used when permanent ones are not yet ready.

When did KERA-TV officially sign on the air?

KERA-TV signed on the air on September 11, 1960. Signing on refers to the date a broadcast station begins regular operations.

What was KERA-TV's initial network affiliation?

KERA-TV initially served as a member station of National Educational Television (NET). NET was the predecessor to PBS, providing educational programming across the country.

How did KERA-TV's signal coverage expand significantly in 1970?

A new transmitter was installed on August 31, 1970, which expanded KERA's signal coverage to include Fort Worth and surrounding communities in Tarrant, Denton, Wise, Parker, Hood, and Johnson counties. A transmitter is the device that sends out the broadcast signal.

When did KERA-TV become a member station of PBS?

KERA-TV became a member station of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1970, the same year PBS was launched to supersede NET. PBS is a non-profit public broadcaster and program distributor.

What significant cultural contribution is KERA-TV credited with in 1974?

In 1974, KERA-TV became the first television station in the United States to broadcast episodes of *Monty Python's Flying Circus*, often credited with introducing the British comedy series to American audiences. This marked an early instance of a public television station introducing a popular foreign comedy to the U.S.

What was the purpose of KDTN (channel 2), which was launched by North Texas Public Broadcasting in 1988?

KDTN was launched as a secondary PBS member station, primarily used to broadcast educational and instructional programs, freeing up KERA-TV's schedule for entertainment programming. This allowed for a more specialized programming approach.

When and why did North Texas Public Broadcasting sell KDTN?

North Texas Public Broadcasting sold KDTN to Daystar, a religious broadcaster, on August 12, 2003, because its funding was no longer sufficient to operate two television stations. Divesting a station can help an organization focus its resources.

How did KERA-TV plan to utilize bandwidth after selling KDTN?

KERA-TV planned to use KDTN's digital signal bandwidth to transmit high-definition content on its main digital channel 13.1, though this was later made feasible by improvements in multiplexing technology. Multiplexing allows a single digital channel to carry multiple subchannels.

What was the former call sign meaning for KERA-TV?

The call sign KERA is said to represent a "new era in broadcasting." Call signs are unique identifiers assigned to broadcast stations.

What types of programming are typically aired on KERA-TV as a PBS member station?

KERA-TV airs educational and entertainment programming distributed by PBS, such as *NOVA*, *PBS NewsHour*, *Antiques Roadshow*, *Arthur*, *Frontline*, *Masterpiece*, *Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood*, *Nature*, and *Sesame Street*. These are well-known examples of public television content.

How is children's programming scheduled on KERA-TV?

KERA airs children's programming from PBS and American Public Television on its main feed from Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and 24 hours a day on its PBS Kids-affiliated subchannel (13.2). PBS Kids is a dedicated channel offering educational content for young children.

What is KERA-TV's audience reach for children's programming?

KERA-TV has the second-largest average audience for children's programming among public television stations in the U.S., reaching over 350,000 children weekly. This indicates a significant impact on young viewers in its service area.

What are some notable documentaries produced by KERA that were distributed nationwide?

KERA has produced documentaries such as *JFK: Breaking the News*, *Matisse and Picasso* (which earned an Emmy nomination), and the PBS documentary series *The U.S.–Mexican War*. Documentaries explore historical events or subjects in depth.

Besides documentaries, what other types of original programs has KERA produced for distribution?

KERA has produced programs like *The Texas Debates*, *CEO* (an interview series with North Texas executives), *The Van Cliburn: 50 Years of Gold*, and *Frame of Mind* (showcasing independent films and shorts by Texas filmmakers). These programs highlight regional culture and business.

When did KERA-TV establish its news department, and what was its first program?

KERA-TV established its news department on February 16, 1970, premiering a half-hour newscast called *Newsroom* at 6 p.m. This was an early move for an educational station to have a dedicated news operation.

How did KERA-TV's evening newscast title and time slot change over the years?

The program was relaunched as *The 9 O'Clock Report* in October 1976. Within months, it moved to 7 p.m. on January 31, 1977, briefly retitled *The 7 O'Clock Report*, and then became *13 Report* the following month. These changes reflect programming adjustments common in television broadcasting.

When did KERA-TV shut down its news department?

KERA-TV shut down its news department on September 21, 1977. This decision marked a shift away from local news production for the station.

Who were some notable former on-air staff members at KERA-TV?

Notable former on-air staff include Jerry Haynes, host of *Peppermint Place*, and Jim Lehrer, anchor of *Newsroom*. Jim Lehrer later became a prominent anchor for the *PBS NewsHour*.

What resolution and aspect ratio are used for KERA-TV's main programming feed (13.1)?

The main programming feed on digital channel 13.1 is in high definition (1080i) with a 16:9 aspect ratio. High definition (HD) provides a clearer, more detailed picture than standard definition.

What programming is available on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.2?

Subchannel 13.2 carries the PBS Kids Channel programming. This channel is specifically designed to provide educational and entertaining content for children.

What programming is available on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.3?

Subchannel 13.3 broadcasts programming from the lifestyle and how-to network, KERA Create, which launched on January 14, 2016. Create features shows on cooking, gardening, travel, and crafts.

What programming is available on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.4?

Subchannel 13.4 carries programming from the World Channel, having launched on July 1, 2021. The World Channel focuses on news, documentaries, and cultural programming from around the globe.

When did KERA-TV transition from analog to digital broadcasts?

KERA-TV began broadcasting a digital signal on UHF channel 14 on December 14, 2000, and officially shut down its analog signal on VHF channel 13 on June 12, 2009. This transition was mandated by the U.S. government to free up spectrum for other uses.

What is the purpose of the K26NK-D translator in Wichita Falls?

K26NK-D is a translator that rebroadcasts KERA-TV's programming to serve the Wichita Falls area, extending its reach into northwest Texas and southwestern Oklahoma. Translators are low-power stations that retransmit signals to areas where the main signal is weak.

What happened to the transmission towers for K26NK-D in December 2020?

The transmission towers for K26NK-D and another station were vandalized, causing the tower supporting K26NK-D to collapse due to cut guy wires. Service was restored in May 2021 on a different tower. Vandalism can have significant impacts on broadcast operations.

Which markets outside the immediate Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex receive KERA-TV as their default PBS station?

KERA-TV serves as the default PBS member station for several markets in North and West Texas, including Abilene, San Angelo, and the Tyler–Longview–Lufkin–Nacogdoches DMA, as well as the Texas side of the Sherman–Ada market. It is also available on cable in Hillsboro, Waco, and Texarkana. This indicates KERA-TV's broad regional influence.

What is KERA Passport?

KERA Passport is a localized version of the PBS Passport video-on-demand service, offering members who contribute $60 annually or $5 monthly access to stream a wide range of PBS programs online and via the PBS Passport app. This service is a common benefit for public television donors.

What kind of content does the Tellyspotting blog feature?

Tellyspotting is a blog operated by KERA that provides news and articles about British television series, including those aired on KERA-TV as part of PBS programming like *Masterpiece*, and aggregated content from around the internet. This blog caters to fans of British television.

What is the "Ready for Life" initiative?

"Ready for Life" is a multimedia initiative by KERA that provides resources, training modules, a documentary, and books for parents, teachers, and caregivers to help prepare school-age children for healthy and socially enriched lives. Such initiatives aim to support child development and education.

What is the "Summer Learning Challenge"?

The "Summer Learning Challenge" is an annual initiative by KERA for families, involving online PBS-related activities, reading, cooking, and other summer activities designed to be done together. This program encourages continued learning during school breaks.

What was the purpose of the "Cyberchase Step It Up!" program hosted by KERA?

The "Cyberchase Step It Up!" program, in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Fort Worth, aimed to inspire children and educators to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines while learning about math. This program combines education with health and wellness.

What community events has KERA hosted or sponsored?

KERA has hosted screenings of documentaries like *Willie Velásquez: Your Vote Is Your Voice*, *Jackie Robinson*, and *The Vietnam War*. They also sponsored an event at the Trinity River Audubon Center for children focusing on the Trinity River. These events engage the community with educational and cultural topics.

What are the sister radio stations to KERA-TV?

The sister radio stations are KERA (FM) (news/talk), KKXT (AAA), and WRR (FM) (classical music). AAA stands for Adult Album Alternative, a radio format featuring a diverse range of music.

What was KDTN's affiliation before being sold to Daystar?

KDTN was a secondary PBS member station before being sold to Daystar. This means it also carried PBS programming but likely had a different focus or schedule than the primary station.

What is the primary programming on KERA-TV's main digital channel (13.1)?

The primary programming on KERA-TV's main digital channel (13.1) is the standard PBS schedule broadcast in high definition. This is the main channel viewers tune into for general PBS content.

What is the primary programming on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.2?

Subchannel 13.2 is dedicated to programming from the PBS Kids Channel. This channel provides a full day of educational and entertaining shows for children.

What is the primary programming on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.3?

Subchannel 13.3 features programming from the lifestyle and how-to network, KERA Create, which launched on January 14, 2016. Create offers shows on cooking, gardening, travel, and crafts.

What is the primary programming on KERA-TV's subchannel 13.4?

Subchannel 13.4 broadcasts programming from the World Channel, having launched on July 1, 2021. The World Channel focuses on news, documentaries, and cultural programming from around the globe.

Kera-tv Wiki: KERA-TV: A Beacon of Public Broadcasting in North Texas

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Station History

Genesis and Foundation

KERA-TV, licensed to Dallas, Texas, commenced broadcasting on September 11, 1960. Initially affiliated with National Educational Television (NET), it was a collaborative effort between Southern Methodist University and the Dallas Independent School District (DISD), later evolving under the stewardship of North Texas Public Broadcasting, Inc. The station's establishment was driven by the need for non-commercial educational broadcasting, filling a crucial niche in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Early Operations and Growth

Operating from facilities on Harry Hines Boulevard, KERA-TV benefited from early support from commercial stations. The station's initial signal coverage was limited, but a significant expansion occurred on August 31, 1970, improving reach into Fort Worth and surrounding counties. In the same year, KERA transitioned to the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), becoming a key provider of educational and cultural programming.

Cultural Impact

KERA-TV played a notable role in introducing programming to American audiences, famously airing episodes of *Monty Python's Flying Circus* in 1974, contributing to its eventual cult following. The station has also been a significant producer of original content, including documentaries and public affairs programs distributed nationally.

Evolution and Expansion

In 1988, North Texas Public Broadcasting launched KDTN as a secondary PBS affiliate, allowing KERA-TV to focus more on entertainment programming. KERA-TV later sold KDTN in 2004. The station also established a strong radio presence with sister stations KERA (FM), KKXT (FM), and WRR (FM), further solidifying its role in the region's media landscape.

Programming Excellence

PBS Core Schedule

As a dedicated PBS member station, KERA-TV's schedule features a wide array of programming distributed by PBS. This includes acclaimed series such as *NOVA*, *PBS NewsHour*, *Antiques Roadshow*, *Frontline*, *Masterpiece*, and children's educational programs like *Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood* and *Sesame Street*.

Children's Programming

KERA-TV dedicates significant airtime to children's programming, airing content from PBS and American Public Television on its main feed and 24/7 on its PBS Kids-affiliated subchannel. The station boasts one of the largest audiences for children's programming among public television stations nationwide.

Original Productions

KERA-TV has a rich history of producing original content for national distribution. Notable contributions include documentaries like *JFK: Breaking the News*, *Matisse and Picasso*, and the documentary series *The U.S.–Mexican War*. The station also produces programs such as *The Texas Debates*, *CEO*, and *Frame of Mind*, showcasing local and independent filmmakers.

Digital Content Platforms

Beyond broadcast, KERA offers digital platforms like KERA Passport, a video-on-demand service for members, providing access to a vast library of PBS content. The station also operates the "Tellyspotting" blog, which focuses on news and reviews of British television series popular with public broadcasting audiences.

Technical Infrastructure

Broadcast Spectrum

KERA-TV operates on virtual channel 13. Its digital signal is transmitted on UHF channel 14. The station completed its transition from analog to digital broadcasting on June 12, 2009, in compliance with federal mandates.

Transmitter and Facilities

The station's transmitter is located in Cedar Hill, Texas, providing a robust signal across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. KERA-TV shares studio facilities with its sister radio stations on Harry Hines Boulevard in Dallas.

Licensing and Data

The station's licensing authority is the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), with a facility ID of 49324. Technical specifications, including Effective Radiated Power (ERP) and Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT), are publicly available through FCC filings.

Digital Subchannels

KERA HD (13.1)

The primary channel broadcasts KERA's main programming schedule in high definition (1080i). It also provides a standard definition feed equivalent for providers that do not support HD.

KERA Kids (13.2)

This subchannel offers continuous programming from the PBS Kids network, providing educational and entertaining content for children throughout the day.

KERA Create (13.3)

KERA Create features programming focused on lifestyle and how-to content, including cooking, crafting, travel, and home improvement shows, sourced from the Create network.

KERA World (13.4)

This channel broadcasts programming from the World Channel, offering a diverse range of documentaries, news, and cultural programming from around the globe.

Digital Platforms

KERA Passport

KERA Passport is an extension of the national PBS Passport service, offering members extended access to a library of on-demand video content. Eligible donors can stream a wide variety of programs online and via the PBS Passport app, supporting KERA's mission.

Tellyspotting Blog

The "Tellyspotting" blog serves as a dedicated resource for enthusiasts of British television. It provides updates on new and upcoming series, reviews, and curated articles from across the internet, often highlighting programs featured on KERA-TV.

Online Presence

KERA maintains a comprehensive online presence through its website, kera.org, offering streaming access to its broadcast channels, program information, and details about its various initiatives. The station also provides specific portals for services like KERA Kids.

Community Engagement

Educational Initiatives

KERA actively engages with the community through educational programs. Initiatives like "Ready for Life" provide resources for parents and educators focused on child development, early literacy, and health. The "Summer Learning Challenge" encourages families to participate in educational activities during school breaks.

Partnerships and Events

The station collaborates with local non-profits and organizations to host events and programs. These include screenings of documentaries related to social issues, historical events, and cultural figures, often accompanied by discussions and community dialogues.

Inspiring Learning

Through programs like *Cyberchase* events and activities focused on environmental education along the Trinity River, KERA aims to inspire learning and engagement among children and families across North Texas, reinforcing its commitment to public service and education.

About KERA

Sister Stations

KERA-TV is part of a larger media family operated by North Texas Public Broadcasting. Its sister stations include NPR member station KERA (90.1 FM), adult album alternative station KKXT (91.7 FM), and classical music station WRR (101.1 FM).

Geographic Reach

While licensed to Dallas, KERA-TV serves the extensive Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and extends its reach to other areas in North and West Texas that lack local PBS affiliates, making it a vital resource for a broad audience.

Public Service Mission

KERA-TV operates under a public service mission, providing educational, informational, and cultural programming. Its commitment extends to community outreach and fostering lifelong learning, embodying the core values of public broadcasting.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the KERA-TV Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI based on publicly available information from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The information presented may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional media or broadcasting advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official station documentation, industry standards, or seeking advice from qualified media professionals. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

KERA-TV: A Beacon of Public Broadcasting

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Station History 📜

🚀 Genesis and Foundation

🏢 Early Operations and Growth

🌟 Cultural Impact

🔄 Evolution and Expansion

Programming Excellence 📺

📚 PBS Core Schedule

🧒 Children's Programming

🎬 Original Productions

🌐 Digital Content Platforms

Technical Infrastructure ⚙️

📡 Broadcast Spectrum

🗼 Transmitter and Facilities

🔗 Licensing and Data

Digital Subchannels 📡

1️⃣ KERA HD (13.1)

2️⃣ KERA Kids (13.2)

3️⃣ KERA Create (13.3)

4️⃣ KERA World (13.4)

Digital Platforms 💻

💳 KERA Passport

✍️ Tellyspotting Blog

🌐 Online Presence

Community Engagement 🤝

🎒 Educational Initiatives

🤝 Partnerships and Events

💡 Inspiring Learning

About KERA ℹ️

📻 Sister Stations

📍 Geographic Reach

⚖️ Public Service Mission

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Station History

Genesis and Foundation

Early Operations and Growth

Cultural Impact

Evolution and Expansion

Programming Excellence

PBS Core Schedule

Children's Programming

Original Productions

Digital Content Platforms

Technical Infrastructure

Broadcast Spectrum

Transmitter and Facilities

Licensing and Data

Digital Subchannels

KERA HD (13.1)

KERA Kids (13.2)

KERA Create (13.3)

KERA World (13.4)

Digital Platforms

KERA Passport

Tellyspotting Blog

Online Presence

Community Engagement

Educational Initiatives

Partnerships and Events

Inspiring Learning

About KERA

Sister Stations

Geographic Reach

Public Service Mission

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice