cyprus tv — Cyprus TV viewers must prepare to retune their devices as private television channels transition to new frequencies tonight at midnight. This change involves a switch to frequencies 35 and 48, utilising the DVB-T2 broadcasting standard.
Cyprus tv: Steps to Ensure Continued Viewing
To maintain access to their favourite channels after the switch, viewers need to take specific actions depending on their television equipment.
- If your television supports DVB-T2: Simply retune your channels to the new frequencies.
- If your television does not support DVB-T2: You will need to purchase a DVB-T2 decoder or invest in a new television set that is compatible with this standard.
Insights from Industry Experts
Christodoulos Protopapas, CEO of Hellas Sat, remarked on the significance of this transition, stating that it is the second digital shift rolled out across European countries. He noted that Cyprus has been slow to adapt compared to its neighbours, where the DVB-T2 standard has been in place for some time.
“Cyprus has fallen behind in this area,” Protopapas told philenews, highlighting that the switch is long overdue.
Understanding the New Technology
Protopapas explained that the DVB-T2 protocol allows for more information to be transmitted on each channel, paving the way for additional high-definition (HD) and even ultra-high-definition (4K) broadcasts. He emphasised the importance of viewers checking their equipment, especially those who purchased their televisions three to four years ago, as they may need a decoder to continue receiving channels.
Viewers are advised to take action before the transition occurs, as the current broadcaster, Velister, will cease its transmissions the following day. For those who can afford it, investing in a new television that supports DVB-T2 and 4K could be a beneficial long-term solution.
Challenges and Comparisons
The delay in Cyprus’s transition to the DVB-T2 standard can be traced back to the licensing of Velister by the government in 2010, which was after many other European countries had already begun their digital upgrades. Protopapas explained that the DVB-T standard had been in use for approximately 15 years before this change was initiated.
He pointed out that by 2010, Europe was nearing the end of its first phase of digital transition, while Cyprus was just beginning. Other countries, including Syria and various nations in the region, had already adopted the DVB-T2 standard, and the breakaway regime in northern Cyprus made the switch three to four years prior.
Who Will Be Affected?
This transition primarily impacts viewers who receive free private channels via aerial. Those on subscription platforms, either through cable or satellite, as well as viewers of Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC) channels, will not be affected at this time. However, Protopapas indicated that these subscribers might lose access to certain 4K channels in the future.
He also mentioned that the new DVB-T2 system could be more sensitive to poor household cabling, which might necessitate technical support for some viewers during the initial transition period. Fortunately, the majority of households have not encountered issues based on early feedback.
Support for Viewers
For those in need of assistance with the retuning process or related queries, additional information and support can be obtained from the Service Centre by calling 22 00 07 37.
This transition represents a key step forward for Cyprus in enhancing its broadcasting capabilities and aligning with technological advancements seen across Europe.
