Strategy of the Republic of Slovenia for the digital switchover

STRATEGY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA FOR THE SWITCHOVER FROM ANALOGUE TO DIGITALBROADCASTINGduring the period following the conference. Similarly, at the WRC-07, which isthe highest body for determining ITU general guidelines and policies in thefield of radiocommunications – predominately concerning the distribution anddeployment of radiofrequency spectrum and the allocation of radiofrequencies, part of the meeting was especially dedicated to the transition ofsound and video signals to digitalisation.Important imprint and guidelines are found in the conclusions of the Councilon the topic of "Reaping the full benefits of the digital dividend in Europe: Acommon approach to the use of the spectrum released by the digitalswitchover" (Doc. 10410/08 (Presse 165)), which were, at the time ofSlovenia's EU Presidency, adopted by the EU Council following proposal fromthe presiding country.The switchover will promote innovation and growth in the equipment market,and will contribute to the amended Lisbon agenda. The benefits of digitalbroadcasting for consumers include improved image quality, better sound,better portable and mobile reception, more television and radio channels andmore information services.These benefits are derived primarily from the possibility of processing andcompressing digital data, enabling much more efficient use of networkcapacities than with analogue signals.The switchover will also enable better fulfilment of special needs of olderpeople and those with disabilities, by ensuring ancillary services, such asimproved subtitling, audio commentary, and signing. Attention must be paidto incorporating requirements regarding user access to interfaces (forexample EPG – electronic programme guide), and receivers.In addition, the switchover also involves reduction of future costs foroperators of broadcasting networks. It also creates the possibility of increasedsales of digital receivers, and easier storage and processing of content. Themarket for digital TV receivers (exterior or built-in the TV-receiver) in Europeis estimated to be up to 20 million units per year. These effects couldsubstantially contribute to growth and employment within ICT markets.The second important benefit brought by the switchover will be greaterspectrum capacity, particularly due to the withdrawal of analogue terrestrialtelevision. According to data provided by member states within their nationalswitchover plans, digital terrestrial TV is 4 to 10 times more efficient whenusing the spectrum than analogue terrestrial TV.6