Spain, after the second digital dividend, puts 100% emissions in HD in 2023

Antonio Fernández-Paniagua (Secretariat of State of Telecommunications) takes stock in the 4K HDR of the process for the liberalization of the second digital dividend in Spain.

The Deputy Director of Planning and Management of the radio spectrum in the Secretariat of State of Telecommunications, Antonio Fernández-Paniagua, has exposed in the 4K HDR Summit How has the process for the liberalization of the second digital dividend in DTT been.

He has started his speech stating that although the process of release of the 700 MHz band should have been completed, as set in the National Technical Plan of TDT, before June 30, the Covid-19 pandemic forced this migration to delay. Finally, this process was successfully completed on October 31.

As for the HD evolution In Spain, Fernández-Paniagua recalled that all television channels, whatever their scope, have to evolve their high definition issues of January 1, 2023.

At this time, there are seven multiple digital state coverage and a digital regional coverage multiple, contemplated in the National Technical Plan of the DTT. In these multiple in which television channels are being broadcast on a standard definition, television can use the remaining capacity of multiple transmission to make full and simultaneous broadcasts in HD of their SD channels until January 1, 2023.

As far as ultra definition is concerned, as established by the Technical Plan, it is possible to carry out UHD experimental tests. The emission conditions of these authorizations are limited, due to the lack of frequency availability in the band 470-694 MHz, and the impossibility of coordinating new frequencies at the international level.

There is currently authorization to carry out these tests in all provincial capitals, with the exception of Pontevedra, Ourense, San Sebastián, Vitoria, Pamplona, Huesca, Girona, Soria, Salamanca, Castellón, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca, Alicans, Ceuta, Melilla, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. In all these cities, UHD experimental emissions have been requested that the Secretary of State is studying.

From the point of view of the recipients, the TDT National Technical Plan itself establishes that all TDT receiving devices for sale in the Spanish market must incorporate HD emission tuner as well as the ability to receive signals DVB-T2.

In addition, the screens of more than 40 inches must incorporate Ultra high definition tuner and Broadband connectivity. TVs greater than 24 inches and that have broadband connection, have to implement the hybrid television specification Hbbt.

Fernández-Paniagua has concluded his speech recognizing the role that the recent creation association can play UHD Spain as an interlocutor with the administration for the development of television in ultra high definition in our country.

UHD Spain, which aims to incorporate Telecos, Broadcasters, OTTS, manufacturers of devices, producers and professionals, is born as a non -profit association, similar to those that already exist in other countries such as France, Germany, Italy or the United Kingdom.