Blueprint for advanced digital television

The Digital TV Group panel, a group of influential digital television experts, has produced a blueprint framework for the future of advanced digital television. The proposal is for single frequency networks be used to broadcast 12 high definition channels on terrestrial from 2013.

Under the plans, three multi-frequency networks would be retained to carry public service and regional services. The networks will give almost 100% coverage.

Meanwhile, two of the channels released by the switch to digital would be used for two single frequency networks providing 12 HD channels. It is estimated they would reach 70% of UK homes.

Following extensive debate and development, the group proposes that the change should be introduced in 2013 once switchover is complete. The single frequency networks would use DVB-T2 transmission and MPEG4 compression. As the terrestrial network is converted further, there would potentially be room for up to 40 HD terrestrial channels.

The Digital TV Group is the industry association for digital television in the UK and is independent and platform neutral. Without a clear HD plan the industry is worried that the future of digital terrestrial television in the UK will suffer. There is concern that current Ofcom proposals do not offer a sufficiently compelling product for the consumer.

The panel reported that the 12-channel offering “might be the minimum level that allows digital terrestrial television to come up with a proposal to the public that makes it viable”. The panel admits that the proposals are fairly radical but believes they could succeed.

The DTV Group has previously made clear its dislike for Ofcom’s plans relating to the provision of HD on digital terrestrial television but said its blueprint would “build” on them.

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