Action plan for the introduction of advanced television services (HD-MAC and D2-MAC)
A Commission proposal for a Council Decision on an action plan for the introduction of advanced television services (COM(92) 154) aims to ensure the accelerated development of the market for TV services by satellite and cable based on the D2-MAC standard, particularly in its 16:9 format, and the HD-MAC standard. In support of Council Directive 92/38/EEC, which establishes the above standards for satellite broadcasting of TV signals, the action plan is to continue from the date of its adoption until 31 December 1996. It targets the achievement of: - A critical mass of satellite TV services using D2-MAC (particularly 16:9 format) or HD-MAC; - A significant and constantly increasing number of cable TV networks carrying high-quality 16:9 D2-MAC services to their customers; - A significant and increasing volume of programming in the 16:9 format, with high technical quality both in picture and sound, to be broadcast via these services. To these ends, proposals will be sought for offers to provide on the market television services, including all the elements in the service chain necessary to reach the consumer (integrated service projects embracing satellite distribution means, cable distribution if necessary, access to suitable programme material and receiver availability in the target market). Specific criteria for selection shall be: high percentage of 16:9 content; large audience; high technical quality levels; scope for transfrontier services; scope for the reasonable involvement of programme producers independent of the broadcasters. This approach is detailed in an Annex containing a summary of the action plan and its implementation procedures.