Metaheuristic Procedure to Optimize Transmission Delays in DVB-T Single Frequency Networks

The numerous advantages of single-frequency networks (SFNs) make them one of the preferred deployment options for digital video broadcasting terrestrial (DVB-T) operators. However, SFNs are exposed to self-interference that may reduce the effective coverage. This work deals with the optimal adjustment of internal delays at the transmitters to minimize areas with this problem. The use of metaheuristics is proposed to define a feasible automatic process that allows an intelligent exploration of the space of solutions. Several realistic scenarios in the northeast of Spain have been successfully solved and the quality of solutions has been quantified against other resolution methods. Details on how to adjust the parameters of the algorithms along with practical implementation issues are also addressed.