The technical history of Eurovision
Brian Flowers (497 KB)

The EBU’s Eurovision network went digital at the end of August, using MPEG-2 4:2:2 P@ML technology. Running in parallel with this major project, the EBU has also been evaluating a new VSAT technology which it helped to develop, to be used for the digitalization of the NCC and TCC sound conference circuits.

This article describes the extensive tests that have been carried out on these two new digital technologies.

The 34 Mbit/s - 8PSK coding system for Eurovision
L. Cheveau (95 KB)

After presenting a reminder of how the 34/45 Mbit/s digital coding standard was developed by the European and international bodies (ETSI and the ITU respectively), the Author describes the specific requirements of Eurovision – firstly as regards interference with analogue signals and, secondly, with respect to the optimization of the capacity leased by Eurovision on the Eutelsat system. These requirements have led to the adoption of 8PSK modulation.

All the intensive studies and tests involved were conducted over a period of six years during which there was exemplary co-operation between EBU Members and European manufacturers.

Interworking tests on 34 Mbit/s encoders-decoders
B.G. Flowers (179 KB)

The EBU, in conjunction with RAI in Italy, has carried out interworking tests on four different makes of 34 Mbit/s encoders-decoders, all of which accord with the ETSI standard, ETS 300 174. After three years of effort, involving very good co-operation among all the parties concerned, the four makes of encoder-decoder are now capable of interworking on the Eurovision Network without causing any problems.

Here, the Author summarizes the results of these extensive interworking tests.

Transmission of TC-8PSK digital television signals over Eurovision satellite links: System evaluation and optimization
A. Morello and M. Visintin (571 KB)

The RAI has carried out a study to optimize the use of 34 Mbit/s digital television contribution links within the Eurovision satellite network. The aim of the study - which was based on computer simulations – was to assess the feasibility of increasing from two to three the number of FDM signals allocated to a 72-MHz satellite transponder – by using the spectrum-efficient TC-8PSK method of modulation.

In this article, the Authors report on the results of the RAI computer simulations.

The implementation of satellite technology in the Eurovision network
W. Potter (335 KB)

An essential feature of the Eurovision system, enabling the network to retain its lead in the provision of television distribution services across Europe, has been the implementation of satellite technology in support of the long-established network of terrestrial relays.

This article retraces the history of satellite operations within Eurovision, from the first experiments with the Orbital Test Satellite in the 1970s, to the establishment of transmit/receive earth stations at broadcasters' premises in all the major centres of Europe – East and West.

Against a backdrop of engineering, the author explains that there is much more to satellite transmission than G/T and rain-fades; tact, diplomacy, a keen awareness of European politics, and above all patience are essential attributes contributing to the successful installation of earth stations at the places where broadcasters need them most.

Eurovision voice conferencing using VSAT technology
B.G. Flowers (189 KB)

If Eurovision can be likened to a Tower of Babel, then it is probably during the news and technical coordination conferences that this comparison is most justified. For forty years, these conferences have sought to offer users the maximum of freedom to express their views and state their requirements, as if they were all siting round a table together, although in reality they are dispersed throughout the Eurovision network, linked via an ingenious 4-wire telephone-quality conference system.

With the advent of satellites and their exploitation for television transmission, and with the growing needs of the conference participants as the network extends into Eastern Europe, the search has begun for a new technical basis for the Eurovision conference facilities, also using satellite technology. The article explains some of the factors to be considered in the choice of a system.

Introduction of a computerised planning system in Eurovision operations — Presentation of the "TPP" system
W. Lloyd (368 KB)

At the end of 1993 a computer system was introduced in Eurovision Network planning operations. This system replaced a paper-based methodology in existence since the advent of Eurovision and which was no longer capable of handling increases in workloads due to an upward trend in both the volume of transmissions and the underlying complexity of network operations. The system employs fourth-generation software products and high-performance graphical workstations.

Eurovision Network Management System — the ENMS
D.R. Miles (129 KB)

A characteristic of Eurovision operations, as the network has expanded and evolved over the past 40 years, has been the sustaining influence of a club spirit, founded on the exchange not only of programme material but also of mutual support, technical assistance and a certain degree of altruism. Although only recently identified as a potential target for improvements, the Eurovision Network Management System has always existed, albeit heavily disguised as an ability to adapt to circumstances, and it has always been dependent on the expert knowledge and the professional skills of the people who have made Eurovision work.

The article explores some of the concepts being considered for a more formal approach to Eurovision network management, adapted to the specific operational and commercial requirements of today – yet remaining respectful of the long-standing Eurovision tradition of solidarity and collaboration.

Bringing Eurovision Network Services to market
C. Stoffel (248 KB)

Under the new banner "Eurovision Network Services", the EBU is making available to all users of the television medium a full range of television transmission, technical coordination and programme coordination services which have been of major benefit to EBU members for the past 40 years.

This article presents Eurovision Network Services, and sets them in the context of European television broadcasting.

Digitization of the Eurovision network
L. Cheveau and R. Miles (71 KB)

The EBU plans to operate a digital transmission network for Eurovision, using 34 Mbit/s codecs, from 1995.

This new network will be operated in conjunction with existing analogue sections of the Eurovision network, and this will lead to specific operational constraints and requirements.

Eurovision — All change! (128 KB)