Implementing a national federal digital terrestrial television network

The UK government has passed legislation which provides for the operation of national digital terrestrial television broadcasting (DTTV). Within the present frequency planning system up to six multiplexes across most of the UK could be introduced. The target is to release the UHF spectrum from the occupancy by PAL analogue services so that it could be rented to other users. It is important that the programmes which viewers currently enjoy should be made available in the digital services along with new programmes and digital services. Amongst the mandated requirements of the digital programme services is the need to provide for both audio description and video signing services in addition to the provision of subtitles for the hard of hearing. There are some unique technical challenges faced in setting up both the national six multiplexes and in the planning of the implementation of the Digital 3 and 4 multiplex in particular. This multiplex is required to bear services from Channel 4 and from all of the ITV contractors. These services will reflect the full regionality and character of the current analogue services