Introduction
ETSI is playing a leading role in the delivery of specifications for technologies that are used globally for radio, television and data broadcast. The specifications cover services delivered via cable, satellite and terrestrial transmitters, as well as by the Internet and mobile communication systems. Related topics such as Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV and interactive television are also included.
Our Role & Activities
For many of the broadcast technologies, ETSI addresses two aspects: system and equipment specifications, and 'Harmonised Standards' to assist equipment to be placed on the market in line with European legislation. In addition, for systems that use the radio frequency spectrum, ETSI works with the relevant European organizations in order to secure appropriate frequency allocations that are common throughout Europe.
ETSI works in collaboration with other partners in the broadcast domain, mainly EBU (European Broadcasting Union), DVB Project, WorldDAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale), RadioDNS Hybrid Radio, HbbTV (Hybrid broadcast broadband TV).
A Joint ETSI/EBU/CENELEC Technical Committee, JTC Broadcast, co-ordinates the drafting of standards in the field of broadcasting and related fields. The Committee assesses the work performed within organizations such as e.g. DVB, WorldDAB, DRM, HbbTV, RadioDNS hybrid Radio, and is responsible for coordinating the drafting of standards for broadcast systems (emission-reception combination) for television, radio, data and other services via satellite, cable and terrestrial transmitters. It includes interactive TV, terrestrial TV, radio (including hybrid radio), satellite TV, fixed line TV, mobile TV and audio technologies.
CENELEC is responsible for the EMC standardization of operational aspects of radio and television receivers (TC 209 and TC 100X).
Harmonised standards
Harmonised Standards are a key component of current European legislation, and ETSI is the place where most of the Harmonised Standards for Information and Communication Technologies are developed. It is important to note that the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), implemented in June 2016, covers Broadcast receivers. Harmonised Standards for radio spectrum aspects of broadcast equipment are defined in ETSI TC ERM TG 17.
Safety Harmonised Standards are available from CENELEC. CENELEC is also responsible for the EMC standardization of radio and television receivers.
Radio spectrum
ETSI contributes to the identification of radio spectrum needs for many technologies, including broadcasting. The Institute therefore works closely with the European Conference of Posts and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) and the European Commission to define radio spectrum requirements for Europe. This work in turn is carried to the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU's) Regional and World Radio Conferences. Detailed information on that topic is available on the ETSI Radio technology page.
ETSI and the EBU recognize the need to explore the opportunities of converged networks and to include all interested parties. The EBU is committed to continue their contribution to ETSI and 3GPP activities to foster collaboration with the mobile industry and realise win-win scenarios wherever possible.
Standards
A full list of related standards in the public domain is accessible via the Broadcast committee page.