150Test data

150 Test data

(1) the ACMA may, in writing, ask a national broadcaster to give the ACMA information about transmissions on a test basis, including:

(a) the national broadcaster’s test data; and

(b) the national broadcaster’s technical conclusions from the test data.

(2) the ACMA may also ask the national broadcaster, in writing, to give the information in a particular way.

(3) The national broadcaster must comply with a request as soon as practicable.

Division 10 Transmission in remote coverage area before start of simulcast period

Note about ‘early’ transmissions

This Scheme assumes that a national broadcaster will make arrangements with the intention of broadcasting in digital mode from the start of the simulcast period applicable to the national broadcaster. However, the timetable does not prevent a national broadcaster for a remote coverage area from starting transmissions before the start of the simulcast period.

It is important to note that a national broadcaster may be broadcasting before the start of simulcast periods to test its digital equipment, and its capacity to provide transmissions of adequate coverage and quality. A national broadcaster may be broadcasting its regular digital services in accordance with an approval to commence transmissions before the start of the simulcast period.

Although there may appear to be no visual difference between a test transmission and a ‘regular’ transmission, the Act treats them differently and allows this Scheme to impose different requirements for the kinds of transmission.

Under this Division, the national broadcaster will need to apply to the ACMA for approval to transmit a regular digital service before the start of the simulcast period. the ACMA will approve an application if certain requirements are met.