The Telecommunications Handbook: Engineering Guidelines for Fixed, Mobile and Satellite Systems

15 Terrestrial Broadcast Networks

Jyrki T. J. Penttinen

15.1 Introduction

Television and audio broadcast networks are of the utmost importance in the world's communication. They are both most suitable for real-time information sharing in wide areas, as well as for entertainment.

The analog systems are disappearing gradually whilst digital systems are taking over both audio and television broadcasting. In addition, new methods for global distribution of radio and video contents are being utilized rapidly via the Internet [1].

For a more thorough study of the terrestrial broadcast technologies, references [1–35] provide detailed information based on standards and publicly available studies.

15.2 Analog Systems

15.2.1 Radio

Along with the digitalization of radio and television systems, the older analog systems are disappearing in a fast time schedule. Many countries have completely replaced analog systems with digital from the beginning of the 2000s.

Nevertheless, the era of the analog radio systems will not be over completely for a long time. Low-frequency radio transmissions are still resisting global digitalization, and despite the growing popularity of Internet radios, there is still demand for traditional, “old-fashioned” radio which is useful especially as part of weather alarm systems. It is also a logical way of communication in many rural and marginal areas due to the fact that terminals cannot be assumed to be replaced by digital equipment in a fast time schedule. ...