Toward a new switch-off schedule
The digital terrestrial switch-off has officially slipped.
Following consultation between MISE and the various representatives of the TV world, the mandatory switch-off of MPEG-2 encoding in favor of MPEG-4 on DVB-T standard, originally scheduled for the now imminent September 1, 2021, will be postponed, as will the mandatory switchover to the new DVB-T2 transmission standard, which was planned for June 30, 2022.
The new dates will be set by the MISE with subsequent measures, also based on the monitoring of the replacement rate of the installed receiver fleet, a rate that should have an acceleration thanks to the recent decree that recognizes a €100 bonus, without income limits, for the purchase of a new TV, having scrapped an obsolete one.
The voluntary switchover to MPEG-4 encoding announced by the major broadcasters for some of their networks as of mid-October 2021 will surely also go in the same direction.
On the other hand, the handover of the 700 MHz band to mobile telephony, scheduled for July 1, 2022, remains confirmed.
HD Forum Italia President Benito Manlio Mari recalled the important contribution made by the Association during the whole process of profiling the requirements for television receivers collected in the UHD Book. HDFI has always looked at the specification with balanced anticipation and harmonizing sharing among the actors of the TV supply chain, represented by the industry and Italian broadcasters.
The Forum’s commitment remains constant, always directed to the innovation of techniques, and ready to confront bodies and institutions to offer commitment and expertise.
About Author
