ETSI TS 101 154 provides implementation guidelines for the use of audio-visual coding in satellite, cable and terrestrial broadcasting distribution systems that utilize MPEG-2 Systems. Standard Definition Television (SDTV), High Definition Television (HDTV), Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV) using HEVC coding, Frame Compatible Plano-Stereoscopic 3DTV and Full Resolution HD 3DTV using MVC Stereo are covered. More specifically, the present document covers the first phase of the DVB UHDTV specification.

MPEG-2, H.264/AVC, SVC, MVC Stereo, HEVC and VC-1 video coding systems are covered. MPEG-1 Layer I, MPEG-1 Layer II, MPEG-2 Layer II backward compatible, Dolby AC-3, Enhanced AC-3, AC-4, DTS, DTS-HD, MPEG-4 HE AAC and MPEG-4 HE AAC v2 audio coding systems are covered. Furthermore, the combination of MPEG-1 Layer II with MPEG Surround and the combination of MPEG-4 AAC or MPEG-4 HE AAC or MPEG-4 HE AAC v2 with MPEG Surround are covered. Guidelines for devices equipped with a digital interface intended for digital VCR applications are also given in the present document.

It does not cover applications such as contribution services which are likely to be the subject of subsequent "Guidelines" documents.

The rules of operation for the encoders are features and constraints which the encoding system should adhere to in order to ensure that the transmissions can be correctly decoded. These constraints may be mandatory, recommended or optional.