Poland

[PL] Strategy for Switch-over Adopted

IRIS 2005-7:1/27

Małgorzata Pęk

National Broadcasting Council of Poland

On 4 May 2005 the Council of Ministers adopted a Strategy for the switch-over from analogue to digital technology on terrestrial television.

The introduction of digital terrestrial television (DVB-T) will be based on the standard EN 300 744 elaborated by ETSI.

The model of accelerated conversion was described as the most appropriate for Poland. It envisages introducing digital terrestrial television region by region. In any region where DVB-T will have been introduced the simulcast period should be relatively short; in general it should not exceed 12 months. However, this period will be set more precisely on the basis of the experience gained during simulcast transmission of the first launched multiplexes. It was pointed out that a decision on the switch-off of analogue transmission should be based on two criteria: achieving 95% accessibility (range criterion) and achieving 90% saturation (reception criterion). Fulfillment of both criteria would enable the switch-off of analogue transmission. Than the process would be launched in the next regions.

It is proposed that this strategy should be realized over a 10-year period. The final date for the switch-off of the analogue frequencies in the whole territory of Poland would be 31 December 2014.

It was stressed that due to conversion of the transmission technology the current amount of programme services offered via terrestrial mode in analogue mode (7 channels) cannot be reduced.

The model of accelerated conversion provides that in the first phase 2 multiplexes would be launched, that would enable digital transmission of 8 - 10 television programme services. It would cover all existing terrestrial nationwide, regional and cross-regional channels, plus some additional Polish satellite channels. The reception of programmes transmitted on the first two multiplexes shall be free of charge.

The strategy also includes the timetable for the follow-up steps to be taken within the process of its realization. It will also subject to evaluation and update.