DVB (the European HDTV standard) had this figured out before ratification. The US still chose ATSC because it was better suited for the vast rural areas of much of US. DVB works better in crowded urban areas, like in most of Europe. That is why either side chose their respective standards. So the US decided to go with ATSC for its better coverage in sparse areas and chose to forego the mobile TV aspect. Each had their reasons.
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so... WHY didn't they think of this BEFORE ATSC is finalized.
DVB (the European HDTV standard) had this figured out before ratification. The US still chose ATSC because it was better suited for the vast rural areas of much of US. DVB works better in crowded urban areas, like in most of Europe. That is why either side chose their respective standards. So the US decided to go with ATSC for its better coverage in sparse areas and chose to forego the mobile TV aspect. Each had their reasons.