Frequencies Used in TV Signal Transmission and Broadcast

The broadcasting of television signals involves the use of a range of frequencies, which vary based on the type of broadcast and the region. This article provides an overview of the general frequency ranges for analog and digital TV signals, as well as cable and satellite TV, along with specific details on the allocation of frequencies to different TV bands.

Frequency Ranges for TV Signals

Television signals are transmitted over a range of frequencies that can vary depending on the type of broadcast and the region. Here is a breakdown of the general frequency ranges for different types of TV signals:

Analog TV

Analog TV signals utilize the following frequency bands:

Very High Frequency (VHF):
54 to 216 MHz
Channels 2 to 13 Ultra High Frequency (UHF):
470 to 806 MHz
Channels 14 to 69

These bands are subject to regulation by government agencies such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States and can vary by country.

Digital TV

Digital TV signals can also be transmitted over VHF and UHF frequencies. The specific channels used for digital TV broadcasts can overlap with those used for analog broadcasts. However, the actual frequencies may be slightly different due to the nature of digital modulation. In the United States, digital TV broadcasts typically use the ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) standard, which operates in the VHF 54-216 MHz and UHF 470-806 MHz bands.

Cable and satellite TV services use a wider range of frequencies, often from 5 MHz to 1 GHz or higher, depending on the service provider and the technology used.

Terrestrial TV Channels and Frequencies

Terrestrial TV channels in the UK operate in specific VHF and UHF bands, with allocations for different purposes. Here is the breakdown of those bands:

VHF Band

VHF Band 1: 54 - 88 MHz - No longer used for TV in the UK VHF Band 2: 88 - 108 MHz - FM radio VHF Band 3: 174 - 216 MHz - No longer used for TV. Now used for DAB digital radio in the UK and parts of Europe

UHF Band

UHF Band 4: 470 - 614 MHz - UHF TV (used to go up to 860 MHz, but the spectrum is now used for internet, cell phones, etc) UHF Band 5: This band has been repurposed for internet and cell phone services

Most television in the western world now mainly uses UHF for digital TV.

Satellite TV

Satellite TV broadcasts use the C band (3.7- 4.2 GHz) and Ka/Ku bands (approximately 10.5–14.5 GHz).

Regulation and Allocation

These frequencies are subject to regulation by government agencies such as the FCC in the United States. The specific allocations of these bands can vary from country to country. It is important to note that the precise frequency ranges and allocations can differ based on the region and the regulatory bodies involved.

By understanding the frequency allocations for TV signals, broadcasters and consumers can ensure proper transmission and reception of television broadcasts. This knowledge is essential for maintaining reliable and high-quality television service.