Tech
Ofcom is consulting on ways to release the entire 800MHz band - currently analogue TV channels 61 to 69 - to enlarge the UK's digital dividend.
Such a move would bring the UK into line with what the regulator described as a "critical mass" of European countries but will require modifications to plans to use channels 61 and 62 for digital terrestrial television and channel 69 for wireless microphones after switchover.
Ofcom has suggested that the three channels be cleared and other channels, possibly the range 38-40, used as substitutes.
"We believe that clearing the 800 MHz band is strongly in the interest of citizens and consumers given the large, long-term benefits they should receive," Ofcom said. "There will, however, be implications for some. We think the main impact will be a need for some DTT viewers to carry out an extra retune of their set-top box (or integrated digital television) to ensure their electronic programme guide (EPG) continues to operate correctly."
Stakeholders' views should be sent to Ofcom by April 20.
Such a move would bring the UK into line with what the regulator described as a "critical mass" of European countries but will require modifications to plans to use channels 61 and 62 for digital terrestrial television and channel 69 for wireless microphones after switchover.
Ofcom has suggested that the three channels be cleared and other channels, possibly the range 38-40, used as substitutes.
"We believe that clearing the 800 MHz band is strongly in the interest of citizens and consumers given the large, long-term benefits they should receive," Ofcom said. "There will, however, be implications for some. We think the main impact will be a need for some DTT viewers to carry out an extra retune of their set-top box (or integrated digital television) to ensure their electronic programme guide (EPG) continues to operate correctly."
Stakeholders' views should be sent to Ofcom by April 20.
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