UK SPF Invitation to Tender: Future of the UHF band after 2034 - an analysis of options
The Forum's open calls for commissioned research are a fantastic opportunity to work with us and explore potential frameworks that advance spectrum policy debates. The UK SPF focused this year's third commissioning call on exploring the future of the UHF band after 2034, to map out the options ahead of critical decisions for the future of digital terrestrial television.
Future of the UHF band after 2034: an analysis of options
The UHF band, which comprises the 470-694 MHz range, is currently used for Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT), Program Making and Special Events (PMSE), and other applications. Considering the decisions taken at WRC-23, to allocation to mobile on a secondary basis, and the expiration of DTT broadcast licences in 2034, the present study aims to support future allocations of the relevant bands.
Informed by international directives, the UK has the ability to decide domestically on the allocation of these bands for incumbent and alternative uses. This study follows this context, coupled with recent reports on shifts in audience behaviour.
The research project will seek to understand how spectrum allocation of the UHF band would be best organized to achieve the most efficient use in each of the scenarios identified by Ofcom’s response to Government on the future of TV distribution.
Key dates
- ITT issued: 14 November 2024
- Deadline for clarification of questions: 05 December 2024
- Deadline to submit your tender: 12 December 2024
Additional information
On the one hand, reallocating the UHF band to mobile use would enable upgrades in rural areas, support the growth in mobile data traffic, increase capacity in higher bands through massive MIMO developments and in the network from small cell roll out in urban areas. On the other hand, PMSE representatives argue the need for the entire sub-700 MHz UHF band in certain times and locations for reliable coverage. Therefore, the study will gather evidence on spectrum usage for DTT, exploring the spectrum efficiency gains within each of Ofcom’s proposed approaches.
To achieve impact within the project’s resources, the scope will be carefully controlled, focusing work packages solely on unique spectrum topics. The study’s goal is to ensure that perspectives from all relevant spectrum stakeholders—including the mobile sector, PSBs/broadcasters, and PMSE—are accurately represented. Accordingly, the research should evaluate potential improvements in DTT spectral efficiency from both technical and economic perspectives.
Building on previous studies that explored Single Frequency Network (SFN) designs and multiplex impacts, this study will examine detailed DTT network re-engineering, selections of coding and modulation rates, alternative multiplex licensing models, and the use of guard intervals for SFNs and MFNs. The study should also assess the impact on spectrum requirements and the costs associated with migrating to more efficient video codecs, particularly HEVC and VVC.
This work aims to support future efforts by the UK Government and regulators to identify efficiencies and options for utilizing the UHF band, considering both PMSE and broadcasting requirements as part of the broader solution, alongside needs of potential new band users.
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Contact us
Sophie Greaves
Sophie Greaves is Head of Programme for Communications Infrastructure and Services at techUK, and oversees the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Jaynesh Patel
Jaynesh Patel is Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, leading the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK and overseeing the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
Matthew Wild
Matthew joined techUK in August 2023 as a Programme Assistant.