Dutch carrier KPN has awarded a long-term contract to Thomson for a major upgrade to its transmitter network across the Netherlands. The multi-million Euro contract will increase the power of KPN’s digital terrestrial service.
“KPN has chosen a very innovative route, adding flexibility in the modulation schemes while upgrading the power and reach of existing DVB-T transmitters, which we can comfortably provide,” said Patrick Montliaud, Senior Vice President, Integration and Transmission Solutions for Thomson’s Grass Valley business. “Our Elite modular transmitter platform allows us to tailor systems for customers giving them the freedom to choose the transmission format, power and redundancy that precisely meets their needs.”
The long-term contract calls for additional transmitter sites as well as upgrades to existing ones. All the new sites will be based on the Thomson Elite 100 digital television transmitter. While powers range from 475W to 900W depending on the site, all transmitters are equipped for a maximum capacity of 1.2kW to allow for future upgrades and changes in network topology. The Elite transmitter provides for redundant operation, and KPN has elected for a 5 + 1 configuration.