Digital transition training attracts experts from 18 countries

Broadcasting experts from 18 countries have praised the ABU and partners involved in running a digital transition training course in New Delhi.

More than 70 delegates – half from outside India – attended the three-day Digital Broadcasting Technologies and Implementation training run by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) together with the ABU, the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), the Asia Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD), the Indian Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning (MSIP), the Republic of Korea and Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC).

The course presented the ITU Report on Broadcasting Trends and the updated version of the Guidelines on Transition to Digital Television Broadcasting including DTTB, MTV, IPTV, Cable TV and Satellite TV.

ABU Technology Director Dr Amal Punchihewa said attendees shared their experiences on the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, provided information on digital radio and built skills for the transition.

“Feedback from participants was extremely positive,” he said.

The course covered terrestrial, satellite, cable and Internet delivery of radio and television services, with a review of road maps for digitalisation used as the ITU has assisted more than 30 countries in Asia-Pacific region making this transition.

Presentations included the regulatory framework and evolution of convergence of technologies and services, with progressive regulators such as NBTC Thailand, a member of ABU, providing case studies in rolling out digital services in Thailand.

“The ABU played an active role with the ITU, making the training program a very successful event,” said Dr Punchihewa. “As an added benefit, participants were able see the dynamic and massive broadcast industry of India.”

More information can be accessed online.