# NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories

> technical research centre in Tokyo, Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q5041577](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5041577)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NHK_Science_&_Technology_Research_Laboratories)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/nhk-science-technology-research-laboratories

## Summary
NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories is the technical research center of Japan's public broadcaster NHK, located in Tokyo. Founded in 1930, it conducts research and development in broadcasting technologies and media innovations.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1930 as NHK's technical research institute
- Located in Setagaya, Tokyo at coordinates 35.63587° N, 139.61565° E
- Operated by NHK (Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai), Japan's public broadcasting organization
- Has 8 Wikipedia language editions including English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean
- Maintains active Twitter presence with over 18,000 followers as of early 2023
- Classified as a research institute with ISNI identifier 0000000108063346
- Holds GND ID 1090508778 and VIAF ID 135384346
- Has been developing broadcasting technologies for over 90 years

## FAQs
### Q: What is the main purpose of NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories?
A: NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories conducts research and development in broadcasting technologies, media innovations, and technical solutions for NHK's public broadcasting operations. It serves as the technical backbone for advancing Japan's broadcasting capabilities.

### Q: Where is NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories located?
A: The laboratories are located in Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan. The exact coordinates are 35.63587° N latitude and 139.61565° E longitude.

### Q: How long has NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories existed?
A: NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories was founded in 1930, making it over 90 years old as of 2025. It has been continuously operating as NHK's technical research center throughout this period.

## Why It Matters
NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories plays a crucial role in advancing broadcasting technology in Japan and globally. As the research arm of Japan's public broadcaster, it has been instrumental in developing key innovations in television, radio, and digital media technologies over the past nine decades. The laboratory's work directly impacts the quality, accessibility, and capabilities of broadcasting services that millions of people rely on for information and entertainment. Its research has contributed to major technological transitions, from analog to digital broadcasting, and continues to explore emerging technologies like 8K video, immersive audio, and next-generation media delivery systems. The laboratory's long-standing expertise and continuous innovation make it a significant contributor to the evolution of broadcasting technology and media science.

## Notable For
- Being Japan's oldest and most established broadcasting technology research center
- Developing Super Hi-Vision (8K) technology that has set global standards for ultra-high-definition video
- Creating innovative audio technologies including 22.2 multichannel sound systems
- Maintaining continuous operation since 1930 through major technological transitions
- Contributing to international broadcasting standards through NHK's global partnerships

## Body
### History and Foundation
NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories was established in 1930 as the research arm of NHK (Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai), Japan's public broadcasting organization. The laboratory was created to support NHK's mission of providing high-quality broadcasting services through technological innovation and research.

### Research Focus Areas
The laboratory conducts research across multiple domains of broadcasting technology, including video encoding and transmission, audio processing, signal processing, and media content creation tools. It has been particularly notable for its work on high-resolution video formats and immersive audio technologies.

### Technological Contributions
One of the laboratory's most significant contributions has been the development of Super Hi-Vision technology, also known as 8K video, which provides approximately 16 times the resolution of Full HD. This technology has influenced global standards for ultra-high-definition video and has been demonstrated in various international events and broadcasts.

### International Impact
NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories has played a significant role in international broadcasting standards development. Through NHK's participation in global organizations and partnerships, the laboratory's research has influenced broadcasting technologies worldwide, particularly in the areas of high-definition television and digital broadcasting standards.

### Current Operations
The laboratory continues to operate from its Setagaya location in Tokyo, maintaining active research programs in emerging technologies. It maintains a significant social media presence and continues to publish research findings that contribute to the advancement of broadcasting and media technologies.

## References

1. GeoNames
2. CiNii Research
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File