SBS Radio and Television The SBS guide to. Self-help. Edition 4. The SBS Guide to Self-help

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2 SBS Radio and Television The SBS guide to Self-help Edition 4

3 Published by the Special Broadcasting Service as a community service. January 2002 Broadcasting in Australia is regulated by the Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992.

4 CONTENTS WHAT IS SELF-HELP? 4 WHO NEEDS SELF-HELP? 4 CHOICE OF STATIONS 5 INTEGRITY OF SERVICES 5 WHAT EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED? 6 THE BASIC SYSTEM 6 PROFESSIONAL SYSTEM 6 CABLE SYSTEM 6 GENERAL TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS 7 REBROADCASTING TELEVISION OVER THE AIR 7 REBROADCASTING RADIO OVER THE AIR 7 CABLE SYSTEMS 8 HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? 9 EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION 9 PAYING FOR SELF-HELP 11 SELF-HELP RETRANSMISSION SUBSIDY SCHEME 11 SHARING 12 APPLYING FOR A LICENCE 12 PLANNING SELF-HELP 13 HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? 13 CHANGES TO EXISTING LICENCES 13 AUTHORISING ADDITIONAL REBROADCAST TRANSMITTERS 13 CHANGE OF LICENCE HOLDER 14 CANCELLATION OR SUSPENSION OF SERVICE 14 A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO GETTING A LICENCE FOR A RETRANSMISSION SYSTEM 15 CHECKLIST/CONSIDERATIONS 16 SBS TELEVISION SERVICES TRANSMITTER LIST 17, 20 SBS TELEVISION SERVICES 18 APPENDIXES 21 1 TELEVISION REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS 22 2 CABLE SYSTEMS 25 3 RADIO REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS 27 4 UHF TELEVISION SIGNAL BOOSTER TRANSMITTER 31 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS 32 6 CONTACT ADDRESSES 34

5 WHAT IS SELF-HELP? Self-help offers a way for communities to provide their own equipment to rebroadcast SBS and other television and radio programs. This booklet describes Self-help and offers advice and guidance to communities who are interested in this approach to gaining reception of SBS Television and Radio. Under Self-help, communities may apply for an apparatus licence to operate their own rebroadcasting transmitter to improve their reception of broadcasting services. WHO NEEDS SELF-HELP? Self-help is designed for communities that do not receive clear television and radio broadcasts. By funding the establishment of retransmission facilities, communities can obtain improved reception at a reasonable cost, usually much earlier than it might otherwise be available. In some cases communities may be living too far from transmitters or reception is poor because of obstacles, such as hills or buildings, which prevent satisfactory reception. It is not always practicable for existing broadcasting licensees to provide retransmission facilities for more isolated communities and to remote areas. Under Self-help, these communities can arrange to provide their own low power rebroadcasting transmitter or community cable system, reducing the need for all households to install large expensive antenna systems. In many regional centres around Australia, Self-help facilities are now broadcasting SBS programs. People living outside the areas serviced by conventional terrestrial broadcasting stations may receive remote radio and television services via satellite. These satellite services can also be used for the Self-help scheme and may be the main source of programs. This guide includes some information about satellite reception and further assistance can be obtained from Optus (Aurora) on These satellite services carry a number of television and radio programs including those of WIN, GWN, Imparja, WAFM, 8SAT, 6SAT, Q22 radio, the ABC, SBS, Seven Central, and CAAMA. SBS TV and Radio are available Australia wide by satellite in four time zones: South East (covering NSW, Victoria and Tasmania); South Australia; Queensland and Western Australia. Northern Territory viewers normally make use of either the South Australian or Queensland service. The ABC radio and TV services are also available Australia wide.

6 CHOICE OF STATIONS Communities are permitted to rebroadcast or redistribute the programs of those radio or television stations in the licence area in which they are located. Community, commercial and national broadcasting services may be retransmitted on Self-help systems, but in the case of commercial or community services, written permission must also be obtained from the licensees. The ABC and SBS have granted general approval for the Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) to authorise retransmission of their services via Self-help facilities. Subscription broadcasting, subscription narrowcasting and open narrowcasting services cannot be retransmitted under Self-help. An apparatus (transmitter) licence is required from the ABA for retransmission systems that rebroadcast SBS services. Better reception from Self-help transmitter Main Transmitting Station Self-help Transmitter Provides Clear Zone Clear Reception Zone Clear Reception Zone Transmission Shadow Area Clear Reception Zone INTEGRITY OF SERVICES Incoming radio and television programs must be retransmitted in their entirety. There is no provision to modify the programs or to transmit local programs under Self-help.

7 WHAT EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED? In assessing the equipment required, the community needs to determine how each broadcasting service will be picked up as well as the best method of delivering them to the households to be served. A broadcasting service may be obtained via satellite or off-air from an existing terrestrial transmitter. Delivery of services can be by rebroadcast transmitters or, alternatively, they can be relayed via a cable distribution system. There is more detail on each option later in this booklet under General Technical Considerations. The ABA has developed technical requirements for basic and professional self-help systems. These cover the needs of most communities. Detailed technical specifications of these systems are included in the appendices of this booklet. The BASIC system (Category A) is low powered and is suitable for small communities that have residences located close together. Basic Self-help transmitters will usually cover an area less than 8km in radius. For services received off-air, self help rebroadcast installations may consist of a high gain receiving antenna, transposer and transmit antenna. For services derived from satellite, a satellite receiving dish, receiver decoder, transmitter and transmit antenna will be needed. PROFESSIONAL systems (Category B) are higher powered with transmitters designed to cover areas up to 20 km in radius. Because of their higher power, these systems must be planned in greater detail and need to meet more rigorous technical standards. CABLE systems may vary from a simple diplexer and splitter serving a few dwellings to sophisticated networks involving channel converters, antenna and trunk amplifiers, depending on the community s requirement. For each of these systems a reliable electricity supply must be provided to the site. Mains power is usually preferred; in remote areas storage batteries may be used, but they must be housed safely and given adequate maintenance. It should be noted that equipment suitable for one community may not suit another. This can only be determined after each community s needs are assessed.

8 GENERAL TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS REBROADCASTING TELEVISION OVER THE AIR In most cases Self-help television services will be rebroadcast on UHF television channels. Therefore, people in communities to be served by the Self-help scheme will require a television set capable of receiving UHF signals and an appropriate UHF antenna. A separate transmitter will be needed for each television service to be rebroadcast. The particular channel used for each service will need to be approved by the ABA. If the program is obtained from satellite, there should not be many restrictions on where the receiving dish can be located, provided that there are no obstructions between the satellite and the receiving dish. To obtain good signals from a terrestrial station however, communities need a receiving antenna placed on high ground or on a tall structure. Transmitting antennas also need to be placed on a high point so that the rebroadcast signal can serve the target reception area. Either a directional or omnidirectional antenna may be required, depending on the transmitter s location relative to the area to be served. Usually the receiving antenna is put on the same mast as the transmit antenna. In some areas it may be possible to use a signal booster to rebroadcast the incoming signal without changing the frequency. The signal booster must be designed very carefully to ensure there is no interference to the incoming signal or any other services in the area. Signal boosters have limited range and are best suited to locations where there are strong signals available nearby, for example, on a nearby hill or the edge of a valley, but the signal to the community is blocked. See Appendix 4 for more information. REBROADCASTING RADIO OVER THE AIR The system for rebroadcasting radio under Self-help is similar to television. Once again a separate transmitter is needed for each service. The transmit antenna will need to be placed on a high point to ensure that the signal reaches the whole of the target area. In many areas it may be possible to use the same sites and/or masts to rebroadcast both television and radio. The type of antenna will depend on the area s geographic features and the extent of coverage needed for the community. Self-help radio will transmit on VHF-FM channels meaning an ordinary FM radio can be used to receive programs. The particular frequency used for each service will be allocated by the ABA.

9 It is advisable that communities do not proceed to purchase equipment until a frequency / channel has been allocated by the ABA. Ways to obtain the incoming signal are: a) By landline from the originating station; b) By off-air reception of the signals from the originating FM radio station; or c) By satellite receiver. Note: It is usually very difficult to obtain a satisfactory off-air signal from an AM radio station. Input for these systems is usually obtained by landline. CABLE SYSTEMS Where households participating in a community scheme are grouped close together, a small-scale cable distribution system can be used to bring television and radio signals to each household. Cable systems may be the only option for communities in cities, and areas where no frequencies are available for rebroadcasting signals over the air without causing interference to existing services. The receivers required for cable systems are exactly the same as those used to receive programs over the air. Usually, signals will be retransmitted on the same frequency on which they are received although conversion of UHF to another channel may be approved, to avoid interference with other broadcasting or radio communications services. Radiation from the cable can interfere with reception of radio or television in nearby homes, and cable systems can also pick up signals from broadcasting transmitters in the area. Care with planning and installation can reduce or prevent this interference. All Self-help cable systems must comply with the minimum technical performance requirements as outlined in the technical specifications at Appendix 2. Authorisation by the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) may be required if the cable system crosses property boundaries. For further information, please telphone (02) No licence is required from the ABA for a self-help cable system for SBS.

10 Community Rebroadcasting System TERRESTRIAL OFF-AIR FEED Community Cable System Community Cable System SATELLITE FEED Community Rebroadcasting System HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? Cost depends on how many services are required and whether redistribution over the air or cable is chosen. The number and location of households to be served will also affect the cost of the equipment. Applicable GST charges may apply. The cost will also depend on the transmitted power and the type of system being proposed. An annual fee is charged for the issue of a transmitter licence for a retransmission facility (transmitter). The cost as at January 2001 is in the order of $26 per year, per transmitter. A licence may be issued for a period of up to 5 years. The ABA can provide firm details once an application for a retransmission service is received. EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION Typical cost, in 2001 dollars, per television or radio transmitter (one is needed for each channel) is: TV Category A : $ $ TV Category B : $ $ FM Radio : $ $30 000

11 The cost will vary depending on the actual transmitter power, whether a satellite receiver is needed, and requirements for masts, transmitting antennas and equipment accommodation. When estimating the cost of any Self-help installation, communities should allow for site preparation, installation, freight charges, and a reasonable contingency for many minor items that may not have been included in the original estimate. A community should obtain quotes from several suppliers for its proposed system. Other financial points to consider when choosing a Self-help system are: The size of the community and the extent to which it is concentrated or spread out; Systems which rebroadcast the signals over the air may be easier to commission and therefore less costly than cable systems; In densely populated areas, rebroadcasting of signals over the air may not be possible because there are no available frequencies or the rebroadcasted signals may interfere with other services. A cable system may be more appropriate. When planning a Self-help system, community groups should remember to allow for future maintenance and electricity costs. A maintenance agreement with a professional company may prove beneficial. Insurance should be taken out against damage to equipment. There may also be an annual fee if the self-help service shares an existing mast and or building. If the community is considering Self-help for other services as well as SBS, a separate transmitter is required for each service to be rebroadcast. Note: SBS administers a fund for reimbursing some costs associated with the establishment of self help facilities for SBS services. There is more detail on reimbursement later in this booklet under Paying for Self-Help. Some further assistance may be possible through State and federal ethnic/multicultural assistance schemes or other state Government based schemes.

12 PAYING FOR SELF-HELP Funds to cover a system s cost will usually have to be found from within the community, and the cost to the individuals will depend on the number of participants. There is no way of ensuring that everyone who benefits from the Self-help system contributes to the cost. Once the equipment is working, anyone within range of the transmitter can receive its signals, and there is no obligation under federal law for anyone to contribute to the capital or running costs of the system. In some states when a service is established by local government, legislation provides for a council to levy the community, by way of a land rates component. Self-help costs can be minimised. A suitable site on land owned by a member of the community or local government may be available for market value. ntl Australia also has a special scheme for site sharing for self help services. ntl Australia s contact details are contained in Appendix 6. It may be possible for volunteers to prepare the site and undertake basic installation work such as an antenna tower, although installation of electronic equipment should be left to a professional contractor. The overall cost could be reduced through cooperative arrangements with local councils, community based groups, State Departments of Education, or mining or other companies with an interest in an area s development. Some communities have successfully established Self-help systems through meetings and related activities designed to build community support leading to financial pledges should a scheme be established. Donations and assistance from local businesses and community organisations together with local council/shire support has most frequently been a successful approach to providing the Self-help facility. SBS SELF-HELP RETRANSMISSION SUBSIDY SCHEME In certain situations SBS may be able to provide assistance with the establishment costs for self-help facilities designed for SBS radio and television services. Further information on the SBS Self-Help Retransmission Subsidy Scheme can be obtained directly from SBS. The scheme is only available for the provision of SBS Radio and TV services.

13 SHARING Where a community wishes to provide a Self-help service, and a broadcasting or radiocommunications facility already exists at that location, it is possible in some cases to obtain approval to share the existing site and facilities. This usually incurs a rental and maintenance charge but would eliminate the need to: Establish a new site; Buy and erect a mast for the antenna, equipment shelter; and In most cases, provide power to the site. It is not necessary to share all the facilities. Communities may choose to use only part of them; for instance, an antenna, mast or satellite receiving dish. Further information on Sharing a site already providing national services (such as ABC) can be obtained from ntl Australia: Property Manager, Facilities Leasing PO Box 31 Belconnen ACT 2616, Telephone (02) , Fax (02) or at Licensee contact details for non national broadcasting sites can usually be obtained from the ABA. Information concerning non broadcasting sites such as mobile phone towers or two way radio can usually be obtained from the ACA. APPLYING FOR A TRANSMITTER LICENCE FOR A RETRANSMISSION SYSTEM OR APPLYING FOR VARIATION TO LICENCE CONDITIONS Once a community group decides on the need for a Self-help system, some planning and research should be done. For example, planning can proceed more smoothly if the group has already contacted SBS, determined the number of households participating, and possible sites for antennas. At this stage preliminary contact with the local council and community organisations would be an advantage. The group should contact the ABA and obtain an application form (ABA12) for a transmitter licence for a retransmission system. An application form may be obtained from the ABA s website The completed form will be assessed and further technical advice provided, if required.

14 When both parties are satisfied planning is complete, the ABA will issue a transmitter licence for the retransmission system. PLANNING SELF-HELP Most manufacturers and installers are willing to provide equipment layouts for Self-help systems; alternatively, the community group could hire a consultant to design the system. The equipment chosen for the facility must meet minimum technical performance requirements and advice from the ABA should be sought. A booklet titled: Technical Planning Guidelines, is available from the ABA and contains the Emission Standard for Australian broadcasting services. Detailed technical specifications and performance requirements for Self-help systems are outlined in the appendixes of this guide. Requirements of the Department of Defence or Aviation Authorities regarding the height and marking of masts must be met; also, approval by local government authorities may be necessary. Details should be checked thoroughly, as subsequent changes may be costly and delay issue of a licence. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? The time taken to plan Self-help services varies, but usually several months are required. CHANGES TO EXISTING LICENCES AUTHORISING ADDITIONAL REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS Community groups with Self-help installations are entitled to rebroadcast any new broadcasting services intended for their area, as they become available. It is necessary to apply to the ABA for a transmitter licence for each additional transmitter; this is the case whether signals are received terrestrially or by satellite.

15 CHANGE OF LICENCE HOLDER A transmitter licence can be transferred to another party. Once advice of a change is received from the current licence holder, the ACA can arrange transfer. The ABA should be advised of this action. CHANGE OF LICENCE CONDITIONS Licence holders requiring a change to their existing licence conditions must obtain the ABA s approval following the procedures described previously. A CANCELLATION OR SUSPENSION OF SERVICE If the Self-help system is no longer required, the licence holder should advise the ACA, which will arrange for the licence to be cancelled. A licence can also be suspended if there are reasonable grounds. Such action could occur where the facility is being operated in breach of the licence conditions.

16 A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO APPLYING FOR AN APPARATUS LICENCE A transmitter licence for retransmission is usually granted for a period of five years. The licence is renewable at the end of that period. The ACA will send a renewal notice to the holder about 8 weeks before the licence expires. An application form is available from the ABA (FORM ABA12 - Application for an Apparatus Licence in the Broadcasting Service Bands). The ABA may give initial assistance on technical matters. The application form containing the technical details and the licensee s agreement (where necessary), is forwarded to the ABA. The ABA confirms the licence area details, and completes the engineering assessment and frequency assignment action. Once suitable technical conditions have been finalised, the ABA, as the delegate of the ACA, grants the transmitter licence. The ABA completes the procedures by fowarding a licence to the applicant and providing a copy of the licence to SBS. There is no obligation to advise SBS when starting transmission, but SBS would like to know and may attend an opening ceremony if invited. An applicant form (ABA12) is required when seeking ABA approval for variation of licence conditions.

17 CHECKLIST/CONSIDERATIONS 1. Write to SBS concerning possible future coverage. If no plans are in train, then consider Self-help. 2. Canvas local opinion, hold a public meeting and elect a steering committee, commence fund raising and seek technical advice. Consult with other recently established Self-help groups about their experiences and advice. 3. Decide on the area to be covered and the number of households involved. 4. Contact local government and community organisations. 5. Decide who shall be the licence holder. A shire council, a mining company, an Aboriginal council, or an organisation which is constituted specifically for the task of establishing the service, may be a licence holder. 6. Consider an appropriate site. This may involve purchasing or leasing the land or obtaining planning permission to use the site. 7. Contact the ABA to obtain an application form and to discuss the proposal. 8. Consider the best Self-help system and obtain estimates from manufacturers and installers. You may need to engage a consultant. 9. Decide how the money should be raised. Keep full accounts of subscriptions, organisations making grants, pledges, donations etc. Remember that funds are also required to maintain the equipment and pay for electricity. 10. Contact SBS concerning possible assistance via the SBS Self-Help Retransmission Subsidy Scheme. 11. This scheme will require tax invoices, ABN Nos. (if applicable) to be provided. 12. Take out insurance against equipment damage.

18 SBS Services Transmitter List SBS Analogue Television - National Location Ch ACT Canberra 28 Fraser 53 Tuggeranong 54 Weston Creek/Woden 58 NSW Albury North 53 Armidale 30 Bathurst 46 Bowral/Mittagong 30 Braidwood 54 Broken Bay 64 Central Tablelands 30 Coffs Harbour 69 Cooma 58 Cowra 45 Dungog 42 Gosford 58 Goulburn 58 Grafton/Kempsey 28 Illawarra 53 Kings Cross 58 Kotara 55 Lithgow 29 Lithgow East 52 Manly/Mosman 39 Merewether 32 Murwillumbah 57 Newcastle 45 Nowra North 29 Portland/Wallerawang 54 Richmond/Tweed 41 Stanwell Park 30 Sydney 28 Tamworth 52 Tweed Heads 62 Ulladulla 30 Upper Namoi 28 Vacy 28 Location Ch Wollongong 32 Wyong 39 NT Darwin 28 Darwin North 61 Qld Airlie Beach 34 Atherton 56 Ayr 57 Babinda 45 Bell 53 Boonah 54 Bowen 29 Boyne Island 54 Brisbane 28 Cairns 30 Cairns East 35 Cairns North 53 Currumbin 48 Darling Downs 29 Dimbulah 43 Emerald 58 Esk 52 Gladstone (East) 29 Gladstone (West) 52 Gold Coast 61 Gordonvale 58 Gympie 42 Gympie Town 50 Herberton 57 Hervey Bay 52 Mackay 30 Mareeba 45 Location Ch Mission Beach 62 Mossman 29 Nambour 55 Noosa/Tewantin 29 Ravenshoe 53 Location Ch Redlynch 57 Rockhampton 28 Rockhampton East 52 Shute Harbour 55 Smithfield Heights 53 Southern Downs 30 Stuart 56 Sunshine Coast 34 Toowoomba 53 Townsville 28 Townsville North 52 Tully 58 Wide Bay 30 Yeppoon 53 SA Adelaide 28 Adelaide Foothills 43 Elizabeth South 60 Kingston SE/Robe 53 Naracoorte 54 Port Lincoln 54 Spencer Gulf North 34 Victor Harbor 52 Tas Barrington Valley 37 Burnie 55 Cygnet 42 Dover 53 Dover South 41 East Devonport 54 Geeveston 54 Hillwood 37 Hobart 28 Hobart NE Suburbs 54 Launceston 53 Meander 53 NE Tasmania 29 New Norfolk 53 Orford 52 Location Ch Penguin 34 Taroona 43 Ulverstone 53 Wynyard 30 Vic Alexandra 68 Bairnsdale 54 Ballarat 30 Bendigo 29 Bruthen 50 Churchill 52 Ferntree Gully 68 Foster 60 Horsham 48 Kiewa 54 Lakes Entrance 29 Latrobe Valley 34 Marysville 58 Melbourne 28 Portland 69 Safety Beach 58 Selby 69 Shepparton (Goulburn Valley) 34 South Yarra 58 Upper Murray 30 Upwey 51 Warburton (VIC) 58 Western Victoria (Hamilton) 28 WA Albany 40 Broome 29 Karratha 66 Perth 28 Port Hedland 42 Roleystone 54 Toodyay 34 SBS Digital Television - National Location Ch ACT Canberra 30 NSW Sydney 34 NT Darwin 29 Location Ch Qld Brisbane 36 SA Adelaide 33 TAS Hobart 9A Location Ch Vic Melbourne 29 WA Perth 29

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21 SBS Services Transmitter List - continued SBS Analogue Television - Self-Help Location Ch NSW Berridale 36 Bourke 57 Broken Hill 44 Broken Hill South 66 Dubbo 54 East Grove 43 Griffith 28 Gulgong 68 Khancoban 57 Lightning Ridge 60 Lord Howe Island (North) 6 Lord Howe Island (South) 7 Mudgee 58 Oberon 54 Taree 56 Tumburumba 57 Tumut 54 Wagga Wagga 53 Young 58 NT Alice Springs 28 Ampilatwatja 58 Bathurst Island 63 Groote Eylandt 43 Ikuntji 54 Jabiru 61 Katherine 58 Maningrida 60 McArthur River Mine 63 Milikapiti 63 Milingimbi 63 Nhulunbuy 55 Oenpelli 60 Pine Creek 69 Pularumpi 66 Tennant Creek 58 Tindal 56 Location Ch Yulara 58 Wiluna 60 Yalgoo 60 Qld Augathella 6 Bamaga 52 Barcaldine 60 Bedourie 69 Birdsville 69 Camooweal 63 Charleville 7 Cloncurry 60 Cooktown 61 Croydon 6 Cunnamulla 62 Eromanga 63 Georgetown 63 Gunpowder 60 Hughenden 69 Hungerford 60 Ilfracombe 68 Julia Creek 59 Linville 60 Longreach 54 Mabuiag Island 63 Moranbah 67 Morven 60 Mount Isa 29 Napranum 66 Normanton 52 Quilpie 63 Richmond 65 Roma 60 Seisia 62 St George 61 Thargomindah 60 Tieri 56 Warwick 67 Location Ch Winton 54 SA Angaston/Barossa 69 Carrickalinga 52 Ceduna/Smoky Bay 12 Coober Pedy 60 Gumeracha 53 Mt Gambier 29 Normanville 54 Oodnadatta 57 Peterhead 53 Renmark 30 Swan Reach 63 Truro Grove 69 Woomera 28 Yankalilla 53 Tas Acton Road 52 Circular Head 60 Mole Creek 54 Smithton 38 Stanley 69 Tullah 52 Wayatinah 52 Territories Norfolk Island 9 Vic Gisborne 68 Mildura 29 Mitta Mitta 65 Old Tallangatta 59 Port Campbell 66 Red Cliffs 66 Swan Hill 28 WA Boddington 62 Bridgetown 54 Bunbury 33 Location Ch Cervantes 40 Collie 57 Condingup 58 Denham 67 Derby 59 Eneabba 40 Esperance 28 Gascoyne Junction 63 Green Head 42 Hopetoun 59 Hyden 38 Kalgoorlie 28 Kambalda 52 Kondinin 63 Kununoppin 58 Kununurra 29 Lagrange 60 Lake Grace 36 Lake King 60 Lancelin 65 Laverton 60 Leonora 66 Maryville 53 Meekatharra 62 Menzies 60 Molloy Island 62 Mukinbudin 37 Narrogin 54 Newdegate 57 Newman 69 Nyabing 67 Pingrup 61 Ravensthorpe 58 Trayning 63 Westonia 56 Wickham 69 SBS Analogue Radio - National SBS Analogue Radio - Self-Help Location ACT Canberra NSW Newcastle Sydney Sydney Wollongong NT Darwin Qld Brisbane Ch (FM) 1413 (AM) 97.7 (FM) 1107 (AM) 1485 (AM) (FM) 93.3 (FM) Location Ch SA Adelaide (FM) Adelaide Foothills 95.1 (FM) Tas Hobart (FM) Vic Melbourne 93.1 (FM) Melbourne 1224 (AM) WA Perth 96.9 (FM) Location NSW Young Wagga Wagga Ch 98.7 (FM) (FM)

22 APPENDIXES The detailed technical information contained in the following pages is intended to assist equipment suppliers and installers. It may be useful to supply copies to contractors when requesting quotations. Further information on telecommunications or radio broadcasting transmitters can be obtained from the ABA. Further information on cable systems can be obtained from the ACA.

23 APPENDIX 1 SELF-HELP SCHEME: TELEVISION REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN TELEVISION SYSTEM UHF television in Australia uses CCIR system B-PAL. It occupies the frequency range MHz. Channels 7 MHz wide are used. The vision carrier is 1.25 MHz above the lower limit of the channel and the sound carriers 5.5 MHz and MHz higher in frequency than the vision carrier. Frequency offsets may be prescribed for professional-grade systems. Both horizontal and vertical polarisation are used and the appropriate polarisation is specified by the ABA. Further details of the system are available from the ABA s Interim Australian Broadcasting Planning Handbook. Category A applies to Basic Self-help Television Systems. Category B applies to Professional Television Systems. The two categories of rebroadcasting transmitters included under Self-help system are intended to provide the flexibility necessary to meet the individual requirements of community projects. For example, it is expected that typical mast heights will lie in the range 15 to 30 metres, but actual mast details will depend on local topography. The ABA will approve a technical package suitable for the local situation. For off-air reception of a terrestrial television station, the recommended minimum input field strength is 59 db(uv/m) for band IV and 64dB(uV/m) for band V. However, the higher the db(uv/m) field strength, the better the picture. A more complex antenna system, using a high gain antenna, may also be necessary. To determine which db(uv/m) field strength is appropriate, consult the ABA. PERFORMANCE CATEGORIES FOR SELF-HELP TELEVISION TRANSMITTERS CATEGORY A B UHF Transmitter Power (watts) Up to 10 Up to 100 Antenna gain (times) 1 to 10 1 to 10 Typical coverage radius* (km) Up to 8 Up to 15 NOTE: In unusual circumstances where distribution is on VHF or where the effective radiated power exceeds 1 kw, the minimum performance category is to be Category B. * Based on a field strength of 60 db(uv/m) at 10 metres above ground

24 APPENDIX 1 (cont.) TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SELF-HELP TELEVISION REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS Transmitters should conform to the Australian television system, including the use of standard synchronising waveforms. The following requirements apply only from the input of the transmitter to the transmitter output and not to the rebroadcasting system as a whole. Sections 1, 2 and 3 are mandatory, while the other sections outline the minimum specifications for a signal of satisfactory quality. CATEGORY A B 1. Spurious Emission Level 25 uw(2) (1,2) Including all out-of-channel emissions 2. Carrier Frequency Tolerance (3) Vision Carrier +/- 10 khz +/- 1 khz Intercarrier Frequency +/- 500 Hz +/- 500 Hz 3. Levels Modulation Level - White Reference White Level shall not be less than 16% of Peak Carrier Amplitude Sync Pulse Amplitude Shall be at least equal to 17% 20% of Peak Carrier Amplitude 4. Video - Performance Luminance, Line Time Non-linear 25% 12% Differential Gain + 34% + 8% Differential Phase (Degrees) 25 8 Chrominance-Luminance Cross Talk (Units) Luminance, Field Time (Tilt) 6%K 1%K Luminance, Line Time (Tilt or K-bar) 6%K 2%K Luminance, Short Time 8%K 3%K (K-pulse, K-pulse and Bar) Chrominance-Luminance Inequality -Gain +/- 45% + 5%, -20% -Delays (ns) +/ /- 80

25 APPENDIX 1 (cont.) CATEGORY A B 5. Video - Noise Luminance, Continuous Random (Weighted) - 38dB - 52dB Chrominance, Continuous Random (Weighted) - 32dB - 46dB Periodic Noise from 10kHz to 5MHz - 42dB - 44dB 1.07MHz Beat - 34dB - 34dB Subjective Rating (CCIR 5-step Impairment Scale) Audio - Amplitude Frequency Response 40Hz + 2, - 4dB +/- 2dB 125Hz 2, -2.5dB +/- 2dB 400Hz (Ref.) 0dB 0dB 1000Hz +/- 2dB +/- 2dB 6300Hz +/- 2dB +/- 2dB Hz + 2, -3dB +/- 2dB Hz + 2, -4dB +/- 2dB 7. Audio - Non Linear Distortion 40Hz 2% 1.6% 400Hz 1.6% 1% 4000Hz 1% 0.6% 8 Audio - Noise Weighted (CCIR Quasi-peak) - 46dB - 48dB Unweighted - 44dB - 46dB NOTES: (1) Individual out-of-channel emissions shall not exceed a level of 60dB below peak vision carrier. (2) This requirement applies to spurious emissions falling outside the broadcasting band. A relaxed requirement may be approved for spurious emissions falling into other broadcasting channels. (3) A tighter tolerance on the vision carrier frequency may be required in some circumstances.

26 APPENDIX 2 SELF-HELP SCHEME: CABLE SYSTEMS TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OVERALL CABLE SYSTEM Cable systems should comply with requirements of the current edition of Australian Standard AS The following performance requirements outline the minimum specifications to obtain a signal of satisfactory quality from the cable system input to output. Electromagnetic Interference Cable Screening In a field of 100mV/m at any frequency within the operating range of the cable and including television intermediate frequencies (30-40MHz) the unwanted voltage induced in the cable shall not exceed 10uV. System Radiation With the system operating normally, the maximum radiated field strength measured three metres from any part of installation shall not exceed 30dB(uV/m) (32uV/m) at frequencies up to 300MHz or 50dB(uV/m) (320uV/m) at frequencies between 300 and 1000MHz. Tighter limits may be applied to signals radiated outside the broadcast bands. Cable System Parameter 1. Levels Modulation Level - White Performance Limits* Reference White Level shall not be less than 15% of Peak Carrier Amplitude. Sync Pulse Amplitude Sync Pulse Amplitude shall be at least equal to 17% of Peak Carrier Amplitude. 2. Video - Performance * The left-hand column of figures below represents the minimum performance requirements. System performance will however be acceptable provided that not more than two performance parameters fall below these figures and no parameter falls below the level indicated in brackets. Luminance, Field Time 2% 2% Luminance, Line Time Non-linear 25% (30%) Differential Gain + 34% (+ 44%)

27 APPENDIX 2 (cont.) 2. Video - Performance (cont.) Differential Phase (Degrees) 25 (30) Chrominance-luminance Cross-talk (Units) 20 (30) Luminance, Field Time (Tilt) 6% (8%)K Luminance, Line Time (Tilt Or K-bar) 6% (8%)K Luminance, Short Time (K-pulse, K-pulse Band Bar) 8% (11%)K Chrominance, Luminance Inequality Gain + 45% (+ 55%) Delays (NS) (+ 350) 3. Video - Noise Luminance, Continuous Random (Weighted) -38dB (-36dB) Chrominance, Continuous Random (Weighted) -32dB (-30dB) Periodic Noise From 10kHz To 5MHz -42dB (-40dB) 1.0MHz Beat -34dB -34dB Subjective Rating (CCIR Five-step Impairment Scale) 4 (3) 4. Audio - Amplitude Frequency Response 40Hz - 125Hz + 2,-3dB 400Hz (REF) 1 000Hz +/- 2dB 6 300Hz + 2,-3dB Hz + 2,-4dB Hz 5. Audio - Linear Distortion 40Hz 3% 400Hz 2% 400Hz 2% 6. Audio - Noise Weighted Unweighted -33dB -42dB

28 APPENDIX 3 SELF-HELP SCHEME: RADIO REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN FREQUENCY MODULATION BROADCAST SYSTEM Australian VHF-FM radio broadcasting uses the Pilot Tone stereo system commonly used throughout the world. The principal characteristics of the Australian system are Frequency Range: Channel Frequencies: Deviation: Pre-Emphasis/De-Emphasis: Stereo Channel Subcarrier: Pilot Frequency: MHz 88.1, , 107.9MHz 75kHz maximum 50uS 38kHz 19kHz Further details of the system are available from the ABA. Performance Categories Category A B VHF-FM Transmitter Power (Watts) Up to 10 Up to 100 Antenna Gain (Times) 1 to 3 1 to 3 Typical Coverage Radius (km) Up to 10 Up to 20 Typical mast heights will be within the range of 15 to 60 metres, but actual mast details will depend on local conditions. Low-powered transmitters will provide adequate signals in many localities. Most installations would vary from 10 watts erp at 15 metres to 50 watts at 60 metres. The ABA will approve a technical package appropriate to each situation. Most installations will be satellite fed, and if the satellite receiving installation is adequate for television, it will also be suitable for radio. For off-air reception of a terrestrial FM station, the recommended minimum input level is 48dB (uv/m) for monophonic reception, or 54dB (uv/m) for stereo. However, the higher the db (uv/m) level, the better the signal-to-noise ratio will be, and background noise will be less perceptible. To determine the appropriate db (uv/m) level, consult the ABA.

29 APPENDIX 3 (cont.) TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SELF-HELP RADIO REBROADCASTING TRANSMITTERS The following requirements only apply from the input of the transmitter to the transmitter output and not the rebroadcasting system as a whole. Sections 1, 2 and 3 are mandatory, while the other sections outline the minimum specifications for a signal of satisfactory quality. 1. Spurious Emission Level Emissions at frequencies between 120kHz and 240kHz from the carrier frequency shall be at least 25dB below the level of the unmodulated carrier. Any emissions at frequencies between 240kHz and 600kHz shall be attenuated by at least 35dB below the level of the unmodulated carrier. Any emission appearing on a frequency removed from the carrier by more than 600kHz shall be attenuated by at least log10P (power in watts) decibels below the level of the unmodulated carrier. Note: These requirements are mandatory for emissions falling outside the FM broadcasting band of 88 to 108MHz. A relaxed requirement may be approved for spurious emissions falling into other FM broadcasting channels. 2. Frequency Tolerance Category A B Carrier Frequency Tolerance +/- 5kHz +/- 2kHz Pilot Frequency Tolerance (Stereo Systems Only) +/- 2Hz +/- 2Hz 3. Modulation Levels - All Transmitters Modulation of 100% is defined as 75kHz deviation. Pre-emphasised monophonic transmissions shall not exceed 100% modulation on peaks of frequent occurrence as indicated on the peak indicating device of the standard demodulator or by other means. The modulation level shall be as high as possible consistent with this. Stereophonic transmissions, pre-emphasised and coded, shall comply with the following levels: (A) 19kHz Pilot signal maintained between 8% and 10% modulation depth (6 and 7.5kHz deviation). (B) 38kHz Subcarrier suppressed to cause less than 1% modulation of the main carrier. (C) Total modulation (Including the pilot) by stereophonic signal shall not exceed

30 APPENDIX 3(cont.) 100% modulation on peaks of frequent occurrence, and the modulation level is to be as high as possible consistent with this. Means of setting and maintaining the correct modulation levels shall be provided. These means shall preferably be automatic. An indicating device, to show the modulation levels actually transmitted, shall also be provided. 4. Audio Performance Category A B (Mono or M channel and left and right channel of stereo systems) Amplitude Frequency Response: 40Hz + 2, -4dB + 1, -3dB 125Hz + 2, -3dB +/- 1dB 400Hz 0dB 0dB 1000Hz +/- 2dB +/- 1dB 6300Hz +/- 2dB +/- 1dB Hz + 2, -4dB + 1, -3dB Non-liner Distortion: 40Hz 3% 2% 400Hz 2% 1% 4000Hz 2% 1% Noise: Weighted -46dB -48dB Unweighted -50dB -52dB Note: Figures refer to noise level below peak program level measured with a quasi-peak instrument. 5. Audio Performance (Stereo) Where a stereo program input is available, the program may be rebroadcast in stereo if desired. If rebroadcast in stereo, the following performance is recommended for the parameters affecting stereo performance.

31 APPENDIX 3(cont.) Gain Difference: Category A B 40Hz 3dB 2dB 25Hz 2dB 1.5dB 400Hz 1dB 1dB Hz 3dB 2dB Separation 40, 400, 4000Hz 24dB 30dB Phase Difference 40Hz Hz Hz Hz Pilot Phase (with respect to 38kHz subcarrier) 6 3

32 APPENDIX 4 UHF TELEVISION SIGNAL BOOSTER TRANSMITTERS Signal booster transmitters are a retransmitting system that can receive UHF signals, boost their strength and retransmit into an area where reception is presently unavailable. Signal booster transmitters are to conform to the technical specifications and performance requirements for Self-help Category A television systems. Use Where the area to be served by a booster is well isolated geographically from the surrounding areas, the use of a booster (non-frequency changing transmitter) may be a viable alternative to a normal Self-help television transmitter. More information describing television boosters is available from the ABA. Isolation The use of this type of rebroadcasting transmitter can be restricted due to the isolation requirements between the output transmissions and the input signals. Isolation (without feedback) of at least 20dB greater than the gain of the booster should be obtained to ensure that oscillations do not occur. Interference A booster shall not be operated when interference is caused to the reception of the direct signal, other broadcasting services or to radio communications services. Authorisation for the operation of a signal booster will be on a non-interference basis. Polarisation Polarisation of the boosted signal should be set at 90 degrees to the polarisation of the signal being boosted. This precaution minimises the risk of the boosted signal impairing the reception of viewers who may already receive satisfactory reception from the main transmitter. Planning/Authorisation The planning and authorisation of signal boosters is the same as that for all other Selfhelp rebroadcasting facilities. Further information on Signal Boosters can be obtained from the Director of Engineering, Planning and Licensing Branch, ABA, PO Box 34 Belconnen ACT 2616, Telephone (02) or Fax (02)

33 APPENDIX 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ABA Australian Broadcasting Authority. ABC Australian Broadcasting Corporation. ABN Australian Business Number. ACA Australian Communications Authority. AM Amplitude Modulation. A method of broadcasting radio signals. APPARATUS LICENCE issued under the Radiocommunications Act 1992 by the ABA as the ACA s delegate and authorises the operation of a Radiocommunications transmitter. ie. TV and radio AURORA The satellite distribution system used by Cable and Wireless Optus to deliver SBS television and radio services across Australia. BES Broadcast Engineerng Services provide design, installation and maintenance services to the broadcasting industry for large and small AM, FM Television and STL transmission systems, and is the transmission service provider for SBS in some parts of Western Australia. BROADCASTING Using radio waves to distribute radio or television programs which are available for reception by the general public. COMMUNITY In terms of Self-help, this can be a group of households, from two right up to hundreds. COMMUNITY BROADCASTING SERVICES Radio and TV services broadcast by a licenced community broadcaster. DIRECTIONAL ANTENNA A transmitting aerial in which the energy radiated by a television or radio station is concentrated in a particular direction. DCITA Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. EARTH STATION Used to receive signals from a satellite. Consists of a small dish antenna, with an outdoor electronics unit, connected by cable to an indoor electronics unit. Also known as a satellite receiver. FM Frequency Modulation. A method of broadcasting radio and television signals. GST Goods and services tax. IMPARJA TELEVISION a commercial television service provider for central Asutralia, and is also the transmission service provider for SBS in some locations in the NT and QLD. INTERFERENCE An effect in which the quality of reception of a radio or television service is degraded by an unwanted signal. ITU-R International Telecommunications Union - Radio communications Bureau.

34 APPENDIX 5 (cont.) GLOSSARY OF TERMS LICENCE AREA The geographic area that contains the community or communities to which a radio or television station is licensed to serve. NATIONAL SERVICES Radio and television services broadcast by the ABC or SBS. ntl AUSTRALIA The owners of the National Transmission Network, providing design, installation and maintenance services to the broadcasting industry for large and small AM, FM, Television and STL transmission systems, and is the transimission service provider for SBS in most parts of Australia. OFF-AIR RECEPTION The reception of broadcast signals directly from a radio or television transmitter. OMNI-DIRECTIONAL ANTENNA A transmitting aerial in which the energy radiated by a radio or television station is transmitted uniformly in all directions. OPTUS Cable and Wireless Optus Communications Ltd. RABS Remote Area Broadcasting Services. Provides national, commercial and community television and/or radio programs to remote areas by satellite. REBROADCAST Redistribution of radio and television services through the atmosphere. REBROADCAST TRANSMITTER A station of low operating power designed for the immediate rebroadcast of signals received from an originating radio or television station, usually on a different frequency. Sometimes called a translator or transposer. SBS Special Broadcasting Service Corporation. SELF-HELP Self-help Broadcasting Reception Scheme for Communities SIGNAL BOOSTER A low-powered transmitter which rebroadcasts incoming UHF television signals without changing the frequency. TERRESTRIAL LINK A radio communications system which may be used to directly connect an originating television or radio station and the rebroadcast transmitter used to rebroadcast the signal. TRANSMITTER Equipment used to send a radio or television program over the air using radio waves. UHF Ultra High Frequency. A frequency in the range MHz. (Includes TV channels 28 to 69) VHF Very High Frequency. A frequency in the range MHz. (Includes TV channels 0 to 12 and FM Radio stations in the frequency band MHz).

35 APPENDIX 6 Communities can obtain licence applications, and assistance with planning and funding of Selfhelp television and radio services from the ABA, SBS, Imparja, BES and ntl Australia at the following addresses: AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING AUTHORITY (Canberra) Blue Building Benjamin Offices Chan Street Belconnen ACT 2617 PO Box 34 Belconnen ACT 2616 Tel: (02) Fax: (02) (Sydney) Level 15, Darling Park 201 Sussex Street Sydney NSW 2000 PO Box Q500 Queen Victoria Building Sydney NSW 1230 Tel: (02) Fax: (02) Toll Free: info@aba.gov.au Website: AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION ABC National Transmission GPO Box 9994 Sydney NSW 2001 Tel: reception.advice@abc.net.au Website: SPECIAL BROADCASTING SERVICE 14 Herbert Street Artarmon NSW 2064 Locked Bag 028 Crows Nest NSW 1585 Tel: (02) Fax: (02) Toll Free: technical@sbs.com.au Website: ntl Australia Blue 5 Benjamin Offices Cnr College Street and Benjamin Way Belconnen ACT 2617 PO Box 31 Belconnen ACT 2616 Tel: (02) Fax: (02) information@ntla.com.au Website: BROADCAST ENGINEERING SERVICES (BES) 7 / 9 Vale Street Malaga WA 6090 Tel: (08) Fax: (08) mail@bes-aus.net Website: Imparja Television PO Box 5 Alice Springs NT 0870 Tel: (08) Fax: (08) imparja@imparja.com.au Website: Broadcasting in Australia is regulated by the Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA) under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992.

36 NOTES

37 NOTES