MPEG-2 for DVB and cable

The application of digital video and audio technology in broadcasting has developed at a considerable pace and has already penetrated the production process in studios and the contribution and distribution of programmes on transmission networks. However, the full benefit of this progress is only obtained when the complete chain from studio to home is digital. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how the ISO/IEC MPEG standard can be adapted to the needs of broadcasters and cable operators. The details of the channel coding processes being developed by the European Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) project are described. Within this project there has been a deliberate policy to attempt to harmonise the technical solutions for terrestrial, cable and satellite media whilst allowing each medium to develop its natural technical and commercial capabilities to the full. Some recognition has also been given to wired services such as those possible via the telephone line