The development of an upgraded SPECTRE modem for UK based field trials and tests

Within the SPECTRE (Special Purpose Extra Channels for Terrestrial Radiocommunication Enhancements) project the paper describes the operation of the SPECTRE-II digital terrestrial transmission modem. The operation of the SPECTRE-II modem incorporates many of the features recommended in the draft specification for terrestrial broadcasting undergoing evaluation within the DVB (digital video broadcasting) project. Furthermore the results from laboratory experiments and associated field trials of the SPECTRE-II equipment are contributing to this process. Further demonstrations and trials of this equipment are being planned to show the potential of the system for providing a variety of broadcast services. The paper reports how the flexible DSP based SPECTRE system has been modified and updated over the life of the project. It also reports on measurements carried out in Southern England and how the performance of the error-correction scheme significantly affects the likely coverage and services of any potential digital terrestrial services within the UK