Network Design Issues

September 2009

Designing a convergent network is a complex task. In the particular case of emerging mobile television services, the underlying broadcasting network will usually represent a relatively huge investment, so a careful design is critical. Network planning, sites locations and engineering are usual tasks in such a design. However, other factors – including non technical ones – have a strong impact and do need to be taken into account for a successful service.

This document intends to provide some guidance to design a mobile TV network, towards helping operators satisfying user demands. It is a common knowledge basis that identifies the main technical parameters, but also spectrum regulation, infrastructure related and market factors. It describes the generic impact of these parameters on a mobile TV broadcasting network and gives specific network dimensioning examples. This basis can be used by network operators to further elaborate their customised network design.