Broadcasting Information Bulletin CRTC 2010-719

PDF version

See also: 2010-719-1, 2010-719-2

Ottawa, 28 September 2010

Analog transmitters mandated for digital conversion, or operating on channels 52 to 69 in non-mandatory markets

1. Canadian television is in the process of converting its over-the-air transmitters from analog to digital. The Commission considers that the transition to digital television (DTV) will provide significant benefits to Canadians. Not only will the DTV transition provide television viewers with better picture and sound, including high definition programming, it will allow for more services through multiplexing. Moreover, reclaimed spectrum will be made available for public safety uses and greater wireless competition and innovation through the repurposing of channels 52 to 69.

2. The Commission has established a baseline group of mandatory markets for transition to digital by 31 August 2011, which include the National Capital Region and all provincial and territorial capitals, as well as markets served by multiple originating stations or with populations greater than 300,000. In Appendix 1 to this information bulletin, the Commission has set out a list of affected analog transmitters in those markets.

3. In order to vacate channels 52 to 69, the Commission does not intend to renew authorizations for full-power analog transmitters on those channels outside the mandatory markets beyond 31 August 2011. In Appendix 2 to this information bulletin, the Commission has set out a list of affected analog transmitters in this regard.

4. In A group-based approach to the licensing of private television services, Broadcasting Regulatory Policy CRTC 2010-167, 22 March 2010, the Commission stated that applications for conversion in the markets of Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa-Gatineau, Montréal, Québec and Halifax were to be filed by 31 August 2010. For all other mandatory markets, applications for conversion are to be filed by no later than 31 December 2010.

5. Finally, as soon as their digital transmitters have become operational, licensees are reminded that they are required to inform the Commission in one of the following formats:

electronically, by clicking on the following link:
https://applications.crtc.gc.ca/crtcsubmissionmu/forms/radiodiffusion-broadcasting.aspx?lang=e
and choosing “Information/reports requested by the Commission”

or

by mail to
CRTC
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0N2

or

by fax at
819-994-0218

Applicants who need further information relating to the Commission’s processes can contact a Commission specialist at 1-866-781-1911.

Secretary General

Appendix 1 to Broadcasting Information Bulletin CRTC 2010-719

Appendix 2 to Broadcasting Information Bulletin CRTC 2010-719

Footnotes

Date modified:

2010-09-28