Coverage Prediction Analysis of DVB T2 in Central Java Using ITU 1546 propagation models

The transition to DVB-T2 has improved broadcast quality and efficiency in Indonesia, though achieving optimal coverage remains challenging due to Central Java’s diverse topography. This study evaluates the ITU-R P.1546 model’s effectiveness in predicting DVB-T2 signal coverage across varied landscapes. Using Radio Planner 3.0, geographic and demographic data were integrated to enhance prediction accuracy. The simulations show significant variations in field strength, with rural areas averaging 70–80 dBμV/m, while suburban, urban, and dense urban areas exhibit reduced values of 60–70, 50–60, and 40–50 dBμV/m, respectively. Notable blank spots were identified in high-altitude and remote regions, including areas near Mount Merbabu, Mount Sumbing, and the Dieng Plateau, where the terrain obstructs line-of-sight transmission. This variation aligns with ITU-R P.1546 formulas, such as free-space field strength and clutter corrections. Path analysis reveals further terrain-induced attenuation, especially in mountainous regions, where diffraction and shadowing significantly lower signal strength. These findings confirm the ITU-R P.1546 model's robustness but suggest that regionspecific adjustments could enhance coverage accuracy. This research provides valuable insights for DVB-T2 network planning, supporting policymakers in achieving comprehensive digital TV coverage across Central Java’s challenging terrain.