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Digital broadcasting

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In the area of television and radio broadcasting, the Czech Republic, along with other countries, is preparing for a gradual transfer to digital terrestrial broadcasting (DVB-T and T-DAB). This should bring higher quality of picture and sound, improve the quality of signal reception for most viewers and also allow transmission of a higher number of television and radio channels.

Hundreds of millions of people in almost all of the European Union, the United States and other countries enjoy the benefits of digital broadcasting. This is now also available to the general public in the Czech Republic. ČT24 ČT4 Sport

General advantages of digital broadcasting

higher quality of picture and sound
better signal reception
more TV channels
additional services

How to receive digital broadcasting

Although a color picture could have been broadcast in black and white to an older monochromatic television, such television sets are not able to process the digital signal. Data that are yet to be transferred into picture are sent as a radio signal -- this is the function of the digital tuner. The tuner can be an integral part of the television or can be purchased as a separate piece of equipment called a set-top box. Using this device, viewers with analog tuners can receive digital broadcasting.

In the Czech Republic, both Digital Video Broadcasting Terrestrial (with abbreviation DVB-T) and Digital Video Broadcasting - Satellite (DVB-S) can be received. If an operator provides cable television, viewers can also use DVB-C.

Digital Video Broadcasting – Handheld (DVB-H) is new to the Czech Republic. As approximately 80% of all Czechs watch television broadcasts via terrestrial networks, this type of signal distribution is preferred.

Analog broadcasting to be phased out

Member countries of the European Union have agreed to replace analog broadcasting with digital before 2012 to provide the majority of people with the benefits of digital broadcasting. Both systems use the same frequencies as others are not available.

DVB-T introduced new programs

This year, the Czech Republic started regular broadcasting of the first digital multiplex after years of testing. Users can watch ČT1, ČT2, ČT24, ČT4 Sport and TV Nova. Further expansion will depend on emptying frequencies of old analog television transmitters that are no longer used. This must be coordinated so that all viewers have a chance to prepare themselves for digital broadcasting.

No later than 2012 (but most likely several years earlier), analog broadcasting will end and become a part of history. Around 10 to 15 television channels will be available for viewers instead of the four available today.

Digital broadcasting development policy

The Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with the Czech Telecommunications Office, has prepared a digital broadcasting development policy in the Czech Republic to simplify the transition to this modern way of television broadcasting. This has already been the subject of public discussion. This policy defines the role of the state and public administration in the coordination of the transition process.