Digital Terrestria TV
NTL has pioneered the development of MPEG-2 video compression
systems and is now a leading player in the introduction of
digital terrestrial television for the UK. We were first to
broadcast multi-channel digital TV terrestrially in February 1995
and since then work has progressed steadily on a 2000-carrier
system working to the European specification of the Digital Video
Broadcasting (DVB) group.
NTL has switched on its first DVB compliant Digital Terrestrial
Television transmitter serving the London area. This is the first
of many to be built in readiness for the introduction of public
services in early 1998.
NTL's London digital transmission facility has been built as a
blueprint for the operational systems which will be needed in
early 1998. This mini-network is capable of reaching 10 million
homes, and will facilitate early test transmissions for
manufacturers, broadcasters and consumers. During the tests these
transmissions will enable field measurements to be carried out to
verify coverage predictions of the joint NTL/ITC/BBC frequency
plan. The operation of indoor set-top antennas will also be
evaluated.
NTL has given many over-air demonstrations of its OFDM digital
transmission capabilities since 1992. The RF signals now being
radiated comply with the 2K option of the DVB-T specification and
can be configured to deliver any permissible combinations of the
modulation mode, guard interval and error protection. The London
transmission facility operates at the full power of 10 kW E.R.P.
and includes built-in automatic redundancy switching, monitoring
and telemetry.
NTL is internationally renowned for its expertise in the
design, fast roll-out and operation of major broadcast
transmission networks. The new UK Channel 5 network of 33
transmitters and digital satellite distribution was completed in
under a year. NTL has pioneered the development of OFDM and
MPEG-2 compression systems and has played a leading role in the
establishment of European standards. Internationally we have a
strong track record for studio and broadcast network design,
installation, project management and consultancy.
This expertise and capability enables NTL to offer end-to-end
digital broadcasting solutions including network build and
operation, frequency planning, programme distribution, digital
compression and multiplexing, subscriber management and
conditional access.
Digital Terrestrial TV offers exciting and commercially
attractive opportunities to broadcasters in the UK and
internationally for expanding and developing their business. NTL
with its breadth of expertise and capability in digital
broadcasting intends to play a major role in developing and
implementing the needs of broadcasters in this market.
As we approach the start of the digital era, NTL recognises that
the needs and aspirations of broadcasters old and new will be
many and varied. We hope we can play a positive role in turning
these aspirations into reality.
For further information please e-mail us at marcom@ntl.co.uk
or telephone +44 1962 822281
©Copyright 1997 National Transcommunications Ltd.