JSC Lithuanian Radio and Television Centre (Telecentre) implemented a new terrestrial digital television network adapted to the needs of the national broadcaster LRT.
In addition to LRT TV programmes broadcasted in standard definition this network will also broadcast programmes in high definition (HD) format. The new network operating from 3rd of June covers 97.3% of the territory of Lithuania and reaches 99.2% of Lithuanian population.
According to Rimantas Sinkevičius, the Minister of Transport and Communication, the Order of the Government obligating Telecentre to establish a separate terrestrial digital TV network and supply services of national television and radio programme transmission to LRT was prepared based on the aims of the Development of Information Society Programme and by implementing provisions of the Law on Lithuanian National Radio and Television. “It is crucial that the national broadcaster could implement its mission, i.e. provide Lithuanian population with accurate, unbiased and high quality information under any circumstances. Thus, we are glad that from now on LRT TV programmes are broadcasted to all the Lithuanian population via a separate TV network which meets all national security requirements and the population can see high quality unencrypted TV programmes without paying any additional fee“, the Minister claims.
Remigijus Šeris, CEO at Telecentre, says: “Our company is focused on ensuring a smooth operation of the new network from the first day, therefore we grant a particular attention to the quality of works and equipment. The network transmitters have been acquired from a company which is well-known and well-rated by telecommunications professionals – GatesAir from the USA. At the four first sites – Vilnius, Druskininkai, Alytus and Juragiai – the transmitters have been installed in the presence of the manufacturer’s representatives. Upon evaluation of skills and quality of work of Telecentre specialists, network implementation works have been performed independently in other towns. Prior to the 3rd of June the new network was tested, its technological and quality parameters were monitored, remote control systems were tested, measurement of coverage areas was carried out and other works were performed. We are happy that close cooperation between LRT and Telecentre enabled a very fast implementation of the new terrestrial digital TV network, i.e. only within 9 months from signing the agreement, and LTR audience can already enjoy high definition programmes“ claims Remigijus Šeris.
Upon implementation of the new terrestrial digital TV network, Lithuanian population watch the national broadcaster’s unencrypted channels LRT Televizija and LRT Kultūra in a standard definition format and LRT Televizija HD in a high definition format.
