For many of the broadcast technologies, ETSI addresses two aspects: system and equipment specifications, and 'Harmonized Standards' to assist equipment to be placed on the market in line with European legislation. In addition, for systems that use the radio frequency spectrum, ETSI works with the relevant European organizations in order to secure appropriate frequency allocations that are common throughout Europe.
ETSI works in collaboration with other partners in the broadcast domain, including:
- CENELEC, the European Electrotechnical Standardization Committee
- The DVB Project (Digital Video Broadcasting)
- EBU, the European Broadcasting Union
- WorldDAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting)
A joint ETSI/EBU/CENELEC technical committee, JTC Broadcast, co-ordinates the drafting of standards for broadcast systems (emission-reception combination) for television, radio, data and other services via satellite, cable and terrestrial transmitters. The Committee works with the other specialist groups as necessary.
CENELEC is responsible for the standardization of radio and television receivers.
Harmonized standards
Harmonized Standards are a key component of current European legislation, and ETSI is the place where most of the Harmonized Standards for Information and Communication Technologies are developed. Safety Harmonized Standards are available from CENELEC.
Radio spectrum
ETSI contributes to the identification of radio spectrum needs for many technologies, including broadcasting. The Institute therefore works closely with the European Conference of Posts and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) and the European Commission to define radio spectrum requirements for Europe. This work in turn is carried to the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU's) Regional and World Radio Conferences. ETSI Members may participate in the CEPT work on spectrum allocation, and ETSI Technical Report TR 102 137 lists ETSI standards ordered by the frequency band which they use.