Service technician on a pylon in 1982

50 years of TDF history

tower technician 1982 b

For 50 years, TDF has played a central role in the history of television in France. From analog broadcasting to DTT, HD then UHD and 5G Broadcast, TDF embodies a forward-looking vision, with one mission: to innovate to offer everyone access to quality audiovisual content. In the 1970s, the hunt was on for shadow zones (photo): to guarantee maximum coverage of television and radio, TDF installed 5,000 retransmitters across France, particularly in the most isolated regions. In 2005, a key milestone was reached with the transition from analog to digital television. This marks a significant improvement in picture and sound quality, while offering new channels. In 2011, the "switch over" - the definitive end of analog broadcasting in favor of digital - is a milestone for the company and all the teams involved. With the widespread introduction of High Definition (HD) in 2016, viewers benefit from sharper, more immersive images. At the same time, experiments with Ultra High Definition (UHD) are getting underway. UHD becomes a reality for 75% of French people on the occasion of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, including in overseas territories. The 2024 Olympics are also an opportunity for TDF to test 5G broadcast on a large scale.

In addition, TDF is playing a key role in the liberalization of the 700 MHz frequency bands, which begins in 2017. The process aims to meet the growing needs of mobile services while continuing to guarantee optimal television broadcasting. It is on such a scale that teams in every region are rearranging frequencies in successive phases. A Pharaonic project.

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