Arizona's Univision Voice
An analytical deep dive into KUVE-DT, exploring its technical specifications, historical development, and role in the regional media landscape.
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About KUVE-DT
Station Overview
KUVE-DT, designated channel 46, is a television station serving the Tucson metropolitan area of Arizona. It functions as the primary outlet for the Spanish-language network Univision within this market. The station is owned and operated by TelevisaUnivision, a prominent media conglomerate, and operates in tandem with UniMás outlet KFTU-DT (channel 3), which is licensed to Douglas, Arizona. Both stations share studio facilities located on Forbes Boulevard in Tucson.
Transmission and Coverage
KUVE-DT's main transmitter is strategically positioned atop Mount Bigelow, providing comprehensive coverage across the Tucson region. The station also operates a low-power Class A translator, KUVE-CD (channel 42), which is licensed to Tucson. This translator is situated atop the Tucson Mountains, specifically to overcome signal obstructions caused by Mount Lemmon and ensure adequate reception in the northwestern sectors of the metropolitan area. Furthermore, KUVE-DT's programming is accessible via the second digital subchannel of KFTU-DT, and vice-versa, creating a synergistic broadcast arrangement.
Semi-Satellite Relationship
While KUVE-DT identifies as a distinct station with its own commercials and legal identifications, it operates as a semi-satellite of KTVW-DT, the Univision affiliate based in Phoenix, Arizona. This arrangement means that KUVE-DT primarily simulcasts KTVW-DT's programming, including Univision network content and statewide newscasts produced in Phoenix. This model allows for efficient distribution of network content across a wider geographic area while maintaining local market presence.
Technical Specifications
Channel Information
KUVE-DT operates on both virtual and physical channels, reflecting the evolution of digital television broadcasting. The station's primary digital channel is 34, with a virtual channel designation of 46. Its low-power counterpart, KUVE-CD, utilizes digital channel 36 and virtual channel 42. These assignments are crucial for signal reception and identification by viewers' television sets.
Power and Altitude
The effective radiated power (ERP) for KUVE-DT is 185 kilowatts (kW), indicating a robust signal transmission capability. Its height above average terrain (HAAT) is substantial at 1,124 meters (3,688 feet), contributing to its extensive broadcast range. KUVE-CD, as a low-power station, has an ERP of 15 kW and a HAAT of 577.8 meters (1,896 feet), serving its localized coverage area.
Transmitter Coordinates
The precise geographical locations of the transmitters are critical for broadcast engineering and regulatory compliance. KUVE-DT's transmitter is located at coordinates 32°24′54″N 110°42′57.9″W. KUVE-CD's transmitter is situated at 32°14′55.8″N 111°6′59.9″W. These coordinates are vital for spectrum management and interference mitigation.
Historical Development
Early Origins and Translator Operations
The broadcast history associated with KUVE-DT began on November 1, 1980, when KTVW-DT initiated operations in the Tucson area via a channel 40 translator. This initial setup was later displaced by the launch of KPOL-TV, leading the translator to move to channel 52. The call sign was eventually changed to KUVE-LP in 1998, marking the early stages of its independent identity.
Construction Permit Challenges
Concurrently, the Green Valley channel 46 license attracted significant interest, with multiple applicants vying for the permit. Sungilt Corporation secured the construction permit on October 31, 1988, with the call sign KXGR assigned in 1990. Despite initial plans for affiliation with Paxson Communications' Paxnet, the station faced considerable delays and technical hurdles. After a protracted period involving expired permits and transmitter site changes, KXGR finally signed on as a Pax affiliate on January 5, 2001, albeit with significant technical difficulties that necessitated low-power operation and further FCC scrutiny.
Ownership Transition and Rebranding
Following its eventual licensing in 2003, Sungilt attempted to sell the station. After an initial deal with Donald E. Ledwig fell through, Sungilt agreed to sell KXGR to Univision in January 2002. The sale was approved by the FCC in September 2003 and finalized in November. Upon completion of the acquisition, the station's call sign was officially changed to KUVE-TV, aligning it with the existing low-power station's branding and solidifying its role within the Univision network's portfolio.
Digital Subchannels
Channel Lineup and Programming
KUVE-DT and its low-power counterpart KUVE-CD offer a diverse range of programming through their digital subchannels. This multiplexing capability allows for the simultaneous broadcast of multiple distinct services, catering to varied audience interests. The following table details the current subchannel assignments and their respective programming:
| Channel | Res. | Aspect | Short Name | Programming | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46.1 | 42.1 | 720p | 16:9 | KUVE-DT | Univision |
| 46.2 | 42.2 | 720p | 16:9 | KFTU-HD | UniMás (via KFTU-DT) |
| 46.3 | 42.3 | 480i | 4:3 | getTV | Get |
| 46.4 | 42.4 | 480i | 16:9 | ESCAPE | MovieSphere Gold |
| 46.5 | 42.5 | 480i | 16:9 | ShopLC | Shop LC  |
| 46.6 | 42.6 | 480i | 16:9 | Dabl | Dabl |
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Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or up-to-date. While efforts have been made to ensure fidelity to the source material, users are advised to consult official documentation and primary sources for critical applications.
This is not professional media or technical advice. The information provided herein should not be considered a substitute for professional consultation regarding broadcast engineering, media law, or business operations. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals for specific needs and decisions.
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