What is DTT?
DTT refers to the broadcasting of terrestrial television in digital format. Currently, in South Africa, terrestrial broadcasting is in analogue format. The country is in the process of planning and implementing migration from analogue to digital broadcasting. DTT will enable us to have more television channels than we previously could, subject to regulatory aspects. The technology will also help us improve the quality of our products as it will help us to provide better picture and sound quality.
What is the difference between Terrestrial and Satellite television?
Terrestrial television uses a network of transmission towers to relay the signal across the country. Each transmission tower has a specific area of coverage, and it is the network of coverage that provides television signals across the country.
On the other hand, Satellite television broadcasting uses satellite which is in orbit above the Earth. The broadcasting signals are sent to the satellite and viewers receive a signal via a satellite dish. A single satellite usually covers a large area.
For purposes of digital migration, only people who are receiving their television services via terrestrial transmission, will be affected by digital migration, as they are currently viewing analogue transmission. However people who receive their television services via a satellite dish are not affected as they are already receiving digital satellite signals.
Why the switch?
In 2006 the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) held a Regional Radiocommunication Conference (RRC-06), wherein a treaty dealing with, among others, digital migration of bands III, IV and V was concluded. South Africa was one of the signatories to the treaty. The conference resolved that all countries of Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Islamic Republic of Iran should migrate from analogue to digital broadcasting services by 2015.
The South African Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy
Cabinet approved the Broadcasting Digital Migration Policy on 06 August 2008. The thirteen page document elaborately outlines the importance of the migration for South Africa, and the framework within which digital migration should take place in the country.
For us as Public Service broadcaster digital migration means that we will be able to cover a wider group of people both geographically and demographically. The flexibility of the technology means that we will be able to offer a wider selection of programmes for our various audiences, thus ensuring that we are better able to fulfill our public service mandate. This technological dynamism also means that we are able to live up to our commitment of putting the audience at the centre of everything that we do.
Benefits of DTT for viewers
Besides the fact that Digital broadcasting will offer viewers a wider choice of channels in future, the technology also guarantees the following benefits to viewers:
Enhanced viewer experience through for instance: electronic Programme guide (EPG), sub-titling, additional language options, and interactive services such as weather and news reports.
