scope:

The present document establishes a standard method for transporting Service components (audio and data) produced by Service providers at their own studios to the DAB multiplexing equipment located at the Ensemble provider's centre.

ETS 300 401 [1] established a broadcasting standard for a DAB system. Broadcasters who implement DAB networks require methods for transporting DAB signals, or the component parts of a DAB signal, between studios, where the programme or data service originates, and the transmitter sites from which the signal will be radiated. The network of circuits connecting the studios to the Ensemble provider's ensemble multiplexer is generally known as the Collection Network. The network of circuits connecting the ensemble multiplexer to the transmitters is generally known as the Distribution Network.

The present document is applicable to Collection Networks used in a DAB System. It describes the characteristics of a signal suitable for transporting Service Components, Service Information and control data between a Service provider and an Ensemble provider. The interface is suitable for use on a number of different physical media and telecommunication networks. Provision is made for the inclusion of appropriate error detection and correction and for the management of network transit delay.