Malta - Current situation - History

09.07.2008

DigiB Network has now started DAB+ trials.  It is broadcasting on Block 6A and carrying 20 services.  The commercial launch is planned for October 2008, when the number of services will be increased to 30.  EPG/DLS and SLS will all become part of the service.  The network has one transmitter site, that can cover most of Malta's population of 400,000 inhabitants.

These developments follow on from the licence award by the Malta Communications Authority in 2006.  The country’s four terrestrial DAB frequencies are expected to reach 95% coverage and the licences run for eight years, subject to review after six.

19.01.2008

In early 2006, the Malta Communications Authority awarded the country’s four terrestrial DAB frequencies. Coverage is expected to reach 95% of the Maltese Islands, and the licence runs for eight years, subject to review after six.

The operator, DigiB, expects to adopt the new standard, DAB+ for audio services and DMB for mobile TV services. DigiB is expecting to launch its first DAB+ multiplex in February 2008 and is planning to offer DLS/EPG and SLS as part of the service. With one transmitter site, most of Malta's population of 400,000 inhabitants can be covered with DAB.