Overview
IEC 62553:2012 - Methods of measurement for digital network - defines standardized measurement methods to objectively evaluate the performance of terrestrial digital multimedia transmission networks. The standard establishes a technical baseline (definitions, classifications and signal forms) and describes measurement procedures used for digital terrestrial television (DTTB) test and validation. Its aim is to support stable DTTB services by providing repeatable methods for assessing transmission network behaviour and component performance.
Key Topics and Technical Requirements
IEC 62553:2012 covers measurement principles, diagrams and procedures across the transmission chain. Key technical topics include:
- Definitions and network classification: classification of terrestrial TV transmission networks, transmitting frequencies and contribution links used between stations.
- Signal forms and test signals: requirements for TS and IF signal formats, OFDM test signal parameter sets (references for ISDB‑T and DVB‑T/H) and auxiliary signals used for measurement.
- Signal delay time: precise definitions of delay time and relative delay time difference; direct and indirect measurement systems and recommended measurement locations.
- Relay station performance: measurement diagrams and items for radio wave relay stations including BER (bit error rate) methods, equivalent noise degradation (END), amplitude–frequency characteristics, delay profile and phase jitter.
- Signal-quality improvement instruments: classification and measurement methods for compensators (loop‑back cancellers, diversity reception, co‑channel interference cancellers, C/N reset equipment) with normative prescriptions and example test setups (Annex C).
- Practical examples and annexes: informative examples of delay and signal-quality measurement methods, equipment lists and block diagrams (Annex A and B).
Applications and Who Uses This Standard
IEC 62553 is intended for professionals involved in the deployment, testing and maintenance of terrestrial digital broadcasting systems. Typical users:
- Broadcasters and network operators implementing or validating DTT networks
- RF and transmission engineers performing acceptance testing or fault diagnosis
- Equipment manufacturers and R&D teams validating relay stations, compensators and demodulators
- Test laboratories and certification bodies conducting conformity and performance testing
- Regulators and system planners establishing performance criteria and interoperability checks
Benefits include consistent, repeatable measurements for performance benchmarking, quality assurance and troubleshooting, helping to ensure reliable DTTB service delivery.
Related Standards and Notes
- IEC 62553 references OFDM test parameter sets for existing systems such as ISDB‑T and DVB‑T/H (see tables in the document).
- Users should consult applicable national regulations, broadcast system standards and other IEC/ITU documents for complementary test methods and normative references.
Keywords: IEC 62553, DTTB, digital terrestrial television, measurement methods, signal delay, BER, END, OFDM, relay station, compensator, transmission network.