The Telecommunications Authority (TA) today (4 June 2007) announced the adoption of the National Standard as the technical standard for the digital terrestrial television (DTT) service in Hong Kong. (click here for the press release)

The Government adopts a market-led approach which allows the existing two free-to-air television broadcasters, namely Asia Television Limited (ATV) and Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), to propose the DTT technical standard of their choice for assessment by the TA. The two broadcasters, unanimously proposed to the Government to adopt the National Standard. The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) completed the evaluation of their proposals and the TA has decided to adopt the National Standard as the transmission standard for DTT in Hong Kong.

The Government will publish specifications and guidelines on DTT distribution in buildings and receiver products to facilitate building reception and production of consumer products in the near future.

According to the stipulation of the Government, the two TV broadcasters will simulcast both digital and analogue terrestrial television before end of 2007. By that time, the public can still enjoy the existing four free-to-air analogue television programme channels with their existing television sets and no need to buy any additional equipment. If the consumers intend to improve the reception quality of the existing analogue television programme channels, and/or like to receive the new DTT programme channels including the high-definition television (HDTV) service, they will need to purchase DTT receivers in compliance with the specification set out for the Hong Kong market.

The receiver specification, which will consist of a basic-tier and a higher-tier, is to cater for the different business plans of the two broadcasters and the versatile needs of consumers. The basic-tier receivers will allow consumers to receive the four existing local free-to-air television programme channels transmitted in digital format. The higher-tier receivers will allow consumers to enjoy all DTT programmes, including new programmes and high-definition television (HDTV) programmes.

No consumer electronic products capable to receive DTT of Hong Kong are available in the market yet. Consumers are advised NOT to rush for buying DTT receivers because it is expected DTT receivers will gradually be available in the market three to six months after the DTT receiver specification is published.

Besides the purchase of DTT receivers, consumers should ensure the communal aerial broadcast distribution systems in their buildings are capable to receive the DTT service. They can discuss with the management office / incorporated owners of their buildings to check if upgrade of their aerial distribution systems are required in accordance with the respective technical guidelines set out by OFTA so as to receive the DTT service.

The Government and the broadcasters will mount publicity in relation to DTT and consumer tips for the purchase of DTT receivers nearer the time of DTT launch.