Commission proposal on standards for TV transmissions
The Commission has submitted a proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and the Council on the use of standards for the transmission of television signals (COM(93) 556). Member States shall take all appropriate measures to promote and support the accelerated development of television services in the wide-screen 16:9 format and using 625 or 1,250 lines. All television services transmitted to viewers, whether by cable, satellite or terrestrial means shall: - If in wide-screen format, only use a transmission system employing the 16:9 aspect ratio; - If in wide-screen format and 625 lines, and not fully digital, use the D2-MAC transmission system, or a system which is fully compatible with PAL or SECAM; - If they are in high definition, and are not fully digital, use the HD-MAC transmission system. Completely digital television systems must use a transmission system which has been standardized by a European standardization body, but are otherwise not covered by the proposed Directive. TV sets with an integral viewing screen of visible diagonal greater than 42 cm, for sale or rent, shall be fitted with at least one standardized open interface socket permitting simple connection of additional decoders or peripherals. Any wide-screen 16:9 TV service received and re-distributed on cable television systems shall be re-distributed on such systems in the wide-screen format. Before 1 January 1996, and every two years subsequently, the Commission shall review this Directive, in particular relating to developments in digital technology, and report to the European Parliament, the Council and the Economic and Social Committee, and shall make proposals to adapt the Directive if necessary. Member States shall bring into force laws and administrative provisions to comply with the Directive no later than six months after the date of its notification.