This account of the global switch to digital television, from its origins to its emerging outcomes, provides an understanding of how digital television is converging with the Internet. It pictures a future in which the democratic role of the media, freedom of expression and democratic participation can be enhanced.

Autorentext
Michael Starks is an associate of the Programme in Comparative Media Law and Policy at Oxford University, UK. He managed the Government-led UK Digital TV Project from 2002 to 2004, planning the nation's digital switchover strategy. Earlier he directed much of the BBC's work on digital television and was the founder Chairman of the UK Digital TV Group. He is the author of Switching to Digital Television: UK Public Policy and the Market (2007) and the founding editor of the International Journal of Digital Television.

Inhalt
Preface Acknowledgements Acronyms and Abbreviations Introduction PART I 1. The Impetus for Digital Television 2. The Digital Terrestrial Pioneers 3. The UK's Digital Transition 4. Europe's Coordinated Timetable 6. The Wider Global Picture PART II 6. How to Switch Off Analogue TV 7. Converged Communications 8. Cross-media Regulation? 9. Public Service Digital Media 10. The Democratic Dividend In Conclusion References Index