The Ministry and Department of Communications plans to implement South Africa\u2019s migration from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT) over an 18-month period.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s the word from Faith Muthambi, who was speaking to attendees of the Southern African Digital Broadcasting workshop.<\/p>\n
Muthambi said South Africa is on track to ensure a successful migration with policies, standards, plans, and the DTT broadcasting network all in place.<\/p>\n
\u201cSentech has completed 84% geographic coverage, with the remaining 16% to be covered by satellite,\u201d said Muthambi. \u201cAll 178 transmitters are in place and DTT head ends have also been configured.\u201d<\/p>\n
The South African Bureau of Standards has approved the DTT SANS 862 DVB-T2 standard, and the DTT regulations from Icasa\u00a0are also ready.<\/p>\n
One outstanding item is the technical requirements of the controversial set-top box control system, with Muthmabi saying work to finalise the STB specifications is at an advanced stage.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur priority going forward will be to engage with the neighbouring countries for spectrum harmonisation.”<\/p>\n
Since South Africa is going to be missing the ITU-imposed deadline for migration (17 June 2015), there is a possibility there could be interference between our TV broadcast signals and those from neighbouring countries.<\/p>\n
Muthambi said these countries are\u00a0aware of the need to engage with South Africa.<\/p>\n
\u201cA harmonised effort is being executed. The Bilaterals will be completed before the deadline of 17 June 2015.<\/p>\n
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