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The 600 MHz band is currently one of the most important frequency bands for digital television broadcasting (DVB-T), which is received by a significant part of the Czech population. This frequency range allows the signal to propagate efficiently and reach rural areas with typically poorer coverage, including the distribution of a diverse range of TV channels. This makes digital terrestrial broadcasting available to many households that rely on free access to TV content. A fundamental question for the future, which may affect all those who use digital TV broadcasting, is how this band will be used after 2030, when the current allocation of frequencies for TV broadcasting expires.
The 600 MHz band is currently mainly used for digital TV broadcasting, while its potential for mobile communication services (IMT) is still under discussion. This transition is part of a broader trend where the UHF band is gradually adapting to new technologies and market needs (analogue to DVB-T and DVB-T to DVB-T2). The Czech Republic, like other European countries, must decide whether it is better to keep the band for TV broadcasting or free it up for the development of mobile networks such as 5G.
Technological progress in telecommunications, in particular the introduction of the 5G standard, bring new opportunities for the use of the 600 MHz band. One such innovation is potentially 5G Broadcast, where testing is also underway in the Czech Republic, which may significantly affect the way this band is used in the future. At present, however, the operation of such a platform from a user perspective is unknown, and at the same time no major innovations in terms of further evolution of DVB-T2 can be expected.
On the global level, the basic framework for UHF spectrum management was established at the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23) in Dubai. The newly approved conditions ensure long-term protection of the 470-694 MHz band in Region 1 (of which the EU is a part) for television broadcasting (DTT), with the possibility of using it for emergency communications and national defence in the event of a decline in broadcasting needs.
According to data from Nielsen Admosphere, terrestrial/terrestrial broadcasting (DVB-T) in the Czech Republic will reach a share of 54.5% in Q4 2022, cable networks (CATV) together with IPTV 40.7% and satellite/satellite transmission (DVB-S) 17.0%. This shows the still high dependence of Czech households on digital terrestrial broadcasting.
At the same time, it must be perceived that terrestrial television broadcasting is generally watched mainly by the elderly and citizens from rural areas. For these groups, digital television is a key source of information and entertainment. In view of the above, the fulfilment of the media law and the preservation of media pluralism, it is advisable to verify this trend before making a final decision on the further use of the band after 2030 and to take it into account in any decision.
From an economic point of view, there are several studies analysing the impact of changing the use of the 600 MHz band. The EBU study shows that 5G networks are more expensive to operate compared to DTT. On the other hand, the GSMA study points to a reduction in the number of base stations when using the 600 MHz band for IMT in rural areas. However, it should be noted that neither study assesses the comprehensive impact on mobile operators, terrestrial broadcasters or citizens, but rather focuses on the readiness of the infrastructure for the change or the specific impact on the operation of Czech Free-to-air television.
And what are the conclusions? The future of the 600 MHz band is full of questions and challenges. What will be the role of television in our lives after 2030? Will it still be available for free for all, or will it move into the shadow of new technologies? Will an additional spectrum be needed for capacity provision, and is that spectrum the 600 MHz band?
The key will be to strike a balance between the needs of television broadcasting and mobile communications to ensure maximum benefit for all stakeholders.
Link to the full study HERE
