The Digital Switchover Committee which is handling the switchover from analogue to digital TV, has reported significant interest from the public with an average of 400 calls received on the 153 helpline per month and an average of around 900 enquiries being made on the switchover.
It said the majority of callers stated that they were satisfied with the service.
The Digital Switchover information campaign was launched in January to prepare the public for the eventual switch off of analogue transmissions which will be replaced with digital broadcasting. The campaign will continue throughout the coming months.
“As the switchover date draws closer, the information campaign will intensify and will also give more practical details on how to prepare for the switchover,” stated Ing. Philip Micallef, Chairman of the Digital Switchover Committee. “While some may be under the impression that the switchover is technical and will be difficult, I can assure you that with the right information and assistance, it will be a smooth transition for all. I encourage anyone who will be affected by the switchover to contact the 153 helpline for assistance and guidance.”
Some 9,000 households will be affected by the switchover, which translates into approximately 6.4% of households. Viewers who rely on an aerial (i.e.: analogue broadcast) to be able to view free-to-air Maltese TV stations will be affected by the change and will need to prepare for the switchover. It is estimated that 82% of these households still have a CRT (tube type) TV, and will need to prepare for the switchover by installing a digital decoder.
Viewers with a subscription to either GO or Melita will not be affected and will therefore not need to make any preparations, the committee said.
The Digital Switchover Committee has launched a scheme, whereby retailers selling digital decoders and/or digital televisions offer suitable products that can be used for watching free-to-air Maltese TV in digital.
A list of participating outlets as well as further information on the switchover itself can be found on www.dso.org.mt or by calling the 153 helpline.