Delivery Truck Or Live News Truck?

DENVER (CBS4) - Television has changed drastically over the decades, and this relic is a perfect example of what news used to be. The vehicle pictured, made in the 50s, is the first remote live truck our station had in its fleet. It served its function well through the 60s and was finally retired at the end of the decade.

Inside the truck was a control center with multiple screens and on its roof sat a 50-pound tripod that held another 20-pound satellite. This original truck wasn't capable of powering itself, so another flatbed truck followed around with a generator.

Despite its purpose, this first truck actually had a lot of difficulties going live. In order to stream video from the field, the satellite on top had to be configured in agreement with antennas and transmitters, a process that could take hours. The painstaking attempts were reserved for large events like the Philharmonic Orchestra performances or the Parade of Lights. It wasn't until the 80s that live trucks could successfully broadcast remotely.

And wow have things come a long way! Our Mobile Weather Lab traverses Colorado's geography to capture live shots of wild weather from the center of it all. The satellite is enormous but adjustable, a high definition television sits in the trunk to project weather data, and all kinds of weather gadgets adorn the top. Keep an eye out for the Mobile Weather Lab across Colorado!