Evaluation on the coverage area of Digital Terrestrail Television Broadcast Network in Jos, Nigeria and its envırons

Abstract

This study presents the investigation of the coverage area (CA) of the digital terrestrial television broadcasting (DTTB) in Jos, Plateau State over the two major seasons of the year (wet and dry season). The campaign was carried out using the Nigerian Television Authority Company signal called Integrated Television Services limited (ITS). The aim of this research is to evaluate the coverage area of the digital video broadcasting terrestrial-second generation (DVB-T2) signal in Jos and its environs. The key measured parameter was received signal strength (RSS). The field measurement drive test was the adopted methodology for the campaign to establish the actual coverage of the DTTB in Jos. The mean data value were obtained and used to define the coverage area of the examined locations. The result obtained revealed that digital terrestrial television (DTT) signal was available only in eight (8) Local Government Area of Plateau State. The empirical analysis from the result recorded an improvement between A1- A2 and B1- B2 routes. The primary coverage of route A (A1-A2) presented an improvement of 4.2%, secondary: 25% and 29.2% in the fringe zone while in route B (B1-B2), the following improvements were recorded, primary: 24.96%, secondary: 16.64% and 8.34% in the fringe zone). The coverage area was grossly affected in the wet season. However, there was improvement in the coverage area during the dry season compared to the wet season. Furthermore, radiated map showing coverage area, curve and their grades vital for planning purposes were developed. Summarily, the result obtained will assist the broadcast operators to identify the suitable locations to install repeater or booster stations for the purpose of quality coverage to the entire State. This will guarantee optimal coverage and quality service delivery for the DTT signal (free-to-air) in Plateau State.