The “Überallfernsehen I lokal” DVB-T pilot project, the first of its kind in Germany, is scheduled to begin on 17 March. It was initiated by the Saxon State Authority for Private Broadcasting and New Media, or SLM.
The SLM intends the project to improve the conditions under which local and regional private providers enter digital broadcasting. Commercial local-television operators will have an opportunity to expand their reach. The pilot is also intended to show that low-cost transmission networks can add further programming, particularly local channels, and make terrestrial digital television more attractive.
Unlike conventional broadcast networks, the project does not use a single high antenna site. Instead, existing buildings host a small-cell DVB-T network with five transmission locations serving around 200,000 households. The shorter transmitter range allows the coverage area to be defined precisely.
Local channels can therefore concentrate reporting on their licensed area and avoid the additional cost of distributing programs to distant regions. Rotating-field transmitting antennas will also be used in Germany for the first time, with the aim of improving portable and mobile reception. The SLM commissioned Mugler AG of Oberlungwitz to plan and construct the transmitter network.
Alongside the existing public-service package, viewers in Leipzig will receive the Leipzig Fernsehen city channel, BBC World, a Christian youth and music channel, and a city-information channel from 17 March. Leipzig residents will also be able to receive Radio Horeb and Radio Leipzig digitally via DVB-T.
In the SLM’s view, the Leipzig model can be transferred to numerous regions across Germany, where the number of private local broadcasters has grown steadily in recent years. Local-content expansion is intended to provide additional impetus for DVB-T adoption and digitization. Carrying local television over DVB-T also gives the local economy additional marketing channels for reaching target audiences individually and at low cost.
“What is starting in Saxony is one of our most ambitious projects, but also one with enormous potential for everyone involved and, of course, viewers,” says SLM managing director Martin Deitenbeck. “We are convinced that the Leipzig model will be received successfully and serve as an example for further projects throughout Germany.”
