EdgeBeam Wireless announced the acquisition of the Broadspan distribution platform from Sinclair, Inc. (NASDAQ: SBGI). The deal includes the Broadspan software suite and its engineering team, according to a company statement.

The acquisition allows EdgeBeam to utilize broadcast infrastructure for data distribution through ATSC 3.0 technology. The platform combines broadcast spectrum capabilities with traditional internet service provider coverage to address network congestion issues.

"The Broadspan software gives us a strategic control point in the network for routing, managing, and sourcing data for a national scale ATSC 3.0 data network," said Joe Fabiano, Chief Technology Officer at EdgeBeam Wireless.

The technology transforms broadcast towers into data distribution networks using multicast technology to reach multiple endpoints simultaneously. Applications include software updates, digital signage downloads, and GPS-resilient positioning services.

Del Parks, President of Technology at Sinclair, said the platform leverages existing broadcast infrastructure and provides a scalable tool for data users. The company did not disclose financial terms of the transaction.

EdgeBeam operates as what it calls a Hybrid Network Operator, utilizing the ATSC 3.0 broadcast spectrum for data transmission. The acquisition doubles EdgeBeam's technical workforce through the addition of Broadspan's software and network engineers.

The platform enables real-time visibility and ordering processes for distributing files and software updates to ATSC 3.0-enabled devices across broadcast coverage areas.