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Press Releases
Joint press release: Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and Arqiva take major step towards Digital Switch Over
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The Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and Arqiva have issued the following joint press release:
 Β£1.8 billion contract signed for digital terrestrial TV and DAB digital radio
Two public-service TV multiplex networks from 1,154 transmitters
DAB digital radio extension of up to 160 transmitters
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The Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and Arqiva have concluded contract negotiations for the design, deployment, and operation of its new high-power digital terrestrial television (DTT) network which will replace both the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's analogue television networks and the current low-power DTT network. Μύ
Arqiva will also build and operate additional transmitters to expand the coverage of the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's DAB digital radio network, with the possibility of up to a further 160 new DAB transmitters being ordered in the coming years.
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The deal is expected to be worth, taking into account inflation, in excess of Β£1.8bn over the contract period.
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Under the terms of the contract, the new DTT services will be introduced on a region-by-region basis between 2008 and 2012 and the service will continue to be delivered by Arqiva until 2031 (2023 for DAB).
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The Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's two public-service multiplexes will be broadcast from all 1,154 existing transmitter sites, delivering digital TV to 98.5 per cent of the population via rooftop aerials.
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Richard Waghorn, Controller of Distribution at the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ, said: "We are delighted to take this next step in the process of Digital Switch Over. The delivery of high-power digital signals to the whole country is crucial if the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ is to help deliver a fully digital UK."
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Steve Holebrook, Arqiva's Managing Director, Terrestrial Media Solutions, added: "Digital Switch Over is a complex and challenging task and we are absolutely delighted to have been chosen by the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ to deliver their future television broadcast network.
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"We have a long history in broadcast transmission and we're proud that we'll be playing such a major role supporting the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ in the future."
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More on Arqiva
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Arqiva has a 50-year history in transmission and has helped pioneer the technologies of the digital age. The company has five operating divisions:
Terrestrial Media Solutions - provides national transmission for UK commercial television including ITV, Channel 4, Five and associated digital multiplexes, playing a leading role in the run-up to Digital Switch Over. Transmission services also provided to vast majority of UK independent radio stations, both analogue and digital.
Satellite Media Solutions - provides high quality and flexible solutions to a diverse range of international customers. Includes permanent and occasional broadcast services as well as IP, voice, data and digital media networks. Operational bases in London, Gerrards Cross, Winchester, Feltham and Bedford.
Mobile Media Solutions - new division dedicated to the delivery of content to handheld devices. Recent technology developments open up new service concepts and revenue streams for broadcasters, content providers and mobile operators alike. Arqiva is platform-neutral and has mounted pioneering technical and commercial trials with partners such as Microsoft, O2 and Nokia.
Wireless Solutions - provides market-leading, multi-operator infrastructure systems and services to wireless telecoms, transport and interior public space businesses. This is done through a portfolio of more than 2,400 towers, masts and managed sites, plus InBuilding (indoor coverage) and CityCell (urban coverage) products.
Public Safety - provides frontline communications for the UK emergency services, Government agencies and commercial organisations including design and installation, system maintenance and fully managed services for mobile radio, telecommunications and mobile data solutions.
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