DVB in France - Télévision Numérique Terrestre (TNT)

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DVB in France - Télévision Numérique Terrestre (TNT)

DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) or terrestrial digital television is called Télévision Numérique Terrestre (TNT) in France. Coverage is almost nationwide.

DVB is a global standard, meaning that televisions with built-in decoders bought outside France, and also external decoders (such as FreeView and Top-up TV boxes from the United Kingdom) will work.

• For a map of TNT coverage in France: Click here (in French)
• To find out if TNT  is available in a commune: Click here then select the département name and commune name

Installing TNT

The following is needed to receive TNT:

• An aerial (internal or external). If the current aerial can receive the seven analogue terrestrial channels there is no need to change it.
• Good quality coaxial cable linking the aerial to a DVB terminal/decoder, or a television with a built in decoder
• For more on the equipment needed to get started: Click here (in French)

In areas where TNT is available, decoders are stocked by hardware stores and hypermarkets.

TNT Satellite

TNT is also available via the Astra 1 Satellite at 19.2 degrees east (same as Canal Satellite) as TNT SAT. There is no subscription charge although set up requires the decoder and viewing card (which is valid four years). 

The following is needed to receive TNT via satellite:

• Satellite dish pointing to 19.2 degrees east 
• Decoder box with TNT Sat viewing card (available from hypermarkets and DIY stores)
• For more information on TNT Astra: Click here (in French)

Available Channels 

TNT has 18 free-to-view channels plus CNN, BBC World Service, Sky News and several radio stations.

• For a full list: Click here
• For a daily programme guide: Click here

Over 10 channels are available by subscription only, these include Canal+, Eurosport, Paris Première and TPS Star.