NAB Quality Control & Process Improvement 2

Question 1

In broadcasting, what does the term 'loudness normalization' refer to in the context of quality control?

Accepted Answer

Adjusting audio levels to meet ATSC A/85 or similar standards for consistent perceived volume

Answer

Loudness normalization ensures broadcast audio meets ATSC A/85 (or EBU R128) standards, preventing jarring volume jumps between programs.

Question 2

A Six Sigma DMAIC process improvement project has completed the 'Measure' phase. What is the primary focus of the 'Analyze' phase?

Accepted Answer

Identifying root causes of defects or process variation

Answer

The Analyze phase uses statistical tools to identify the root causes driving defects or variation identified during Measure.

Question 3

Which quality metric measures the percentage of time a broadcast system is operational and available for use?

Accepted Answer

System availability or uptime percentage

Answer

System availability, expressed as a percentage, directly measures how much time a system is operational versus total time.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a 'control chart' in broadcast quality management?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring process outputs over time to detect out-of-control conditions

Answer

Control charts plot process data over time with control limits to distinguish normal variation from signals of process problems.

Question 5

A broadcast facility uses 'redundant systems' as a quality assurance strategy. What is the primary goal of this approach?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring continuous operation if a primary system fails

Answer

Redundant systems provide failover capability so that a backup takes over immediately if the primary system fails, maintaining broadcast continuity.

(NAB) National Association of Broadcasters Certification Practice Test