Delivering Europe’s Advanced DVB-T2 Terrestrial Broadcasting Network in Cyprus

Client: European Union | Location: Cyprus
Challenge: To design, deploy, and commission a next-generation DVB-T2 terrestrial broadcasting network across Cyprus, ensuring compliance with EU broadcasting standards, seamless signal coverage, and full redundancy under a tight 6-month deadline.
Solution: A complete end-to-end terrestrial broadcast system integrating high-power transmitters, combiners, UHF antennas, dual headends, and backup power systems across three strategic sites.
Key Technologies: DVB-T2 transmission, Plisch transmitters, Exir combiners, Harmonic headend systems, redundant UPS, and radio link networks.

The Challenge: Modernizing Cyprus’ Broadcast Infrastructure Under EU Mandate

The European Union mandated the transition to second-generation DVB-T2 terrestrial broadcasting in Cyprus to enhance signal quality, expand channel capacity, and ensure future-proof, energy-efficient broadcasting. The project required integrating modern transmission technologies across geographically dispersed sites, establishing robust primary and backup systems, and ensuring zero service disruption during the transition—all within a non-negotiable six-month timeline.

The PALS Solution: Precision Engineering and Turnkey Integration

Leveraging our deep expertise in broadcast infrastructure and large-scale system integration, PALS delivered a fully redundant, high-availability terrestrial network designed for resilience and performance.

1. Multi-Site Transmitter and Combiner Integration:
   High-efficiency Plisch transmitters and Exir combiners were deployed across three key sites to ensure optimal signal strength and coverage nationwide. Each site was meticulously calibrated to prevent interference and maximize spectrum efficiency.
2. Redundant Headend System:
   A main and backup Harmonic headend was installed to encode, multiplex, and manage broadcast streams, guaranteeing uninterrupted service even during hardware failures or maintenance.
3. UHF Antenna Deployment and Radio Linking:
   Custom-designed UHF antennas were installed to ensure wide-area signal propagation. A dedicated radio link network was established between the headend and transmission sites, enabling real-time data synchronization and resilient connectivity.
4. Power Resilience:
   Backup UPS systems were deployed at all transmission sites to safeguard against power outages and ensure 24/7 broadcast availability.
5. Strategic Technology Partnerships:
   PALS collaborated with industry leaders including Plisch, Exir, and Harmonic to source cutting-edge components and ensure seamless interoperability across the entire system.

The Result: A Future-Proof Broadcast Network Delivered On Time

Despite the complex technical and logistical demands, PALS completed the entire end-to-end deployment within the strict six-month window. The new DVB-T2 network now delivers:

• Superior HD and Ultra HD broadcast quality.
• Expanded channel capacity for public and commercial broadcasters.
• Full compliance with EU technical and environmental standards.
• A scalable, redundant architecture designed to support future technologies.

This project underscores PALS’ capability to execute mission-critical, pan-European infrastructure projects with precision, speed, and technical excellence. From initial design to final commissioning, we provided a seamless transition to next-generation broadcasting, reinforcing Cyprus’ digital readiness and alignment with EU media and technology directives.