[opendtv] Ofcom mulls options for local TV on DTT
- From: "Manfredi, Albert E" <albert.e.manfredi@xxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <opendtv@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2007 18:53:14 -0500
The UK seems to be considering a more US-like DTT system, and with that,
more US-like solutions. Very interesting. Differences between DTT
systems here and there are not as big as some like to believe, and maybe
this will make them smaller still, after analog shutoff.
Bert
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http://www.dtg.org.uk/news/news.php?class=countries&subclass=0&id=2243
Ofcom mulls options for local TV on DTT
An Ofcom technical report suggests two options for the possible future
introduction of local television services. The report says that while
either option-carriage in a national multiplex from selected
transmitters, or broadcast from dedicated local television transmitters
that are either co-sited with national services or are completely
separate-is feasible, both will result in compromises being made in
terms of coverage and interoperability with national digital terrestrial
services.
Ofcom's Digital Dividend Review-currently the subject of a
consultation-recognised that local television is a likely use of
liberated spectrum after digital switchover.
The report says that local TV services inserted into one or more
'national' multiplexes "would achieve extensive coverage, but are
difficult or impossible to target at specific communities". Service
information (SI) would be carried consistently in the national
multiplexes to ensure consistent operation of viewers' receivers.
"However, channel listing, electronic programme guide (EPG) content and
programme information would have to be severely constrained if more than
one local service is broadcast per multiplex in each of the national
broadcasters' regions," says the report.
Using a separate transmitter for local TV "offers flexibility to target
specific communities, but UK-wide coverage would be less extensive than
if carried in a national multiplex". Two studies carried out for Ofcom
indicate there are sufficient frequencies for local services to be
broadcast from at least 40 to 80 transmitters, and this number could be
increased by optimisation of the frequency plan.
"However, there may also be reception and/or interference issues if
local TV transmitters are not co-sited with national multiplexes."
But the report says the advantage of this approach is that the EPG and
channel information can carry full details of the local service and its
programmes regardless of how the local services are arranged
geographically.
Lovelace Consulting 14.02.2007
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