Optimizing DVB-T2 Deployment Strategies to Bridge Rural and Urban Digital Inequality through Cost-Effective Infrastructure Planning and Inclusive Broadcast Access Models

Abstract

Olarewaju Peter Ayeoribe*

Rural–urban digital inequality continues to constrain inclusive urban–regional development, particularly where broadband penetration remains uneven. Recent telecommunications data indicate that while urban internet access exceeds 75–85% in many developing regions, rural connectivity often remains below 40%, creating disparities in access to education, governance information, and emergency communication services. This study investigates how optimized Digital Video Broadcasting–Second Generation Terrestrial (DVB-T2) deployment strategies can reduce this gap through cost-effective infrastructure planning and inclusive broadcast access models. Using propagation modeling, geographic information systems (GIS), and cost–benefit analysis, the research evaluates single frequency network (SFN) configurations across mixed rural–urban territories. Simulation results demonstrate that DVB-T2, with spectral efficiency up to 50% higher than DVB-T, can deliver up to 40 Mbps per multiplex within an 8 MHz channel while covering radii of 60–80 km under optimal terrain conditions. Comparative infrastructure analysis shows that strategically positioned high- power transmitters combined with gap fillers can reduce capital expenditure per covered household by approximately 25–35% relative to fragmented broadband-only expansion in sparsely populated areas. The study further models inclusive access frameworks integrating subsidized set-top boxes and public information multiplexes. Findings suggest that when receiver penetration surpasses 70% in rural districts, public service broadcasting via DVB-T2 significantly enhances access to educational and emergency content at marginal distribution costs near zero per additional user. Energy efficiency assessment also indicates that DVB-T2 high-power high-tower (HPHT) configurations reduce per-bit transmission energy by up to 30% compared to legacy systems. The article recommends a scalable regional deployment framework combining spectrum optimization, infrastructure sharing, and policy incentives to promote equitable digital access. By repositioning DVB-T2 as a complementary digital infrastructure layer within urban–regional planning, the study demonstrates its potential to support resilient, cost-efficient, and socially inclusive communication ecosystems.

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