All set for TV transformation
Remember when the term decoder was a new buzzword? Well, it might very well be time to get used to using another buzzword, as the SA cabinet has finally approved the long-awaited broadcasting digital migration policy.
Under this legislation, public broadcasters such as the SA Broadcasting Corp (SABC) will be able to switch from analogue television to digital technology.
The policy outlines the framework for the change, and government has set some deadlines. One of the deadline drivers is the 2010 soccer World Cup. Another is that the SABC is anxious for the change because of the increasing costs of repairing its outdated analogue structure, which dates back to the 1970s.
Government has set itself the deadline of November 2011 to switch off all analogue signals.
For the switch-over to occur you and I will have to purchase new technology known as set-top boxes (STBs) to convert signals from analogue to digital. Without the technology we simply won’t be able to catch what is broadcast publicly.
Measures are being taken to ensure that those who cannot afford the STBs (about 5m households) are subsidised. The STBs cost R700 a pop and government is willing to foot 70% of the charge. The cost of this subsidy is R2,45bn.
Government is confident about meeting the 2011 deadline. But we will have to wait — and see.
Loading ...