Analog days almost digitally done as switch-off looms
THERE is now less than two weeks left until analog signals will be permanently switched off in areas of Northern NSW.
Nerida O'Loughlin, Executive Director of the Digital Switchover Taskforce said if people are not digital ready by November 27 they will no longer have access to free-to-air TV.
"It's so important for residents in areas of Northern NSW to be digital ready before the switchover date.
Northern NSW will be the sixth region to switch and will join more than 1.6 million households already enjoying digital-only free-to-air TV.
Across Australia, the switch to digital-only TV means for the very first time, viewers in regional and remote areas will have access to a similar number of channels and choice as viewers in metropolitan areas. Digital TV provides 16 free-to-air channels, better quality pictures and CD quality sound whereas analog has only provided 4-5 television channels.
Assistance is still available for people who need help getting ready for digital TV. There are two assistance programs available for households and both schemes provide installation of new equipment in the home.
People who need help and advice to get ready for the switch to digital-only TV should visit the Digital Ready website at www.digitalready.gov.au or call the Digital Ready Information Line on 1800 20 10 13.
To assist customers, Telstra has offerred Coffs Harbour locals the following tips to prepare for the analogue switch off:
Check if your TV is already digital ready. If you can tune into any of the digital TV channels, like ABC2 then you don't have to do anything further.
Televisions purchased pre-2000, or smaller LCD sets (15- to 18-inches) will probably have an analogue tuner and in this case you may need to purchase a set-top box to be able to tune in to the digital frequency. Another option is a new TV.
Note that your TV might need to be re-tuned to pick up the digital channels as not all digital receivers automatically pick up the signal.
Find out if your TV antenna can pick-up digital TV channels. Your antenna may need to be upgraded so that it picks up the right frequency.
Act now to avoid the last minute rush.
