Digital TV — A New Dimension in Home Media

The digital revolution began to emerge in the 1980s, and with computer hardware in a constant state of upgrading and developing, it was difficult to keep up with emerging technologies. Digital TV is one such spin off from the discovery of sending data in a series of zeros and ones, and was first broadcast publicly in the 1990 World Cup.

Analogue Signals

Traditionally, all TV stations broadcast using the analogue system, where the frequency, amplitude, or phase of the signal is responsible for the picture. This very much limits you to the number of channels you can broadcast, and has been in the process of being phased out by digital TV since the turn of the century.

Digital TV

This involves transmitting the audio and video signals in digital, multiplexed format, and this allows for many programs within a channel bandwidth.

Digital Reception

In order to receive a clear signal, you will need a digital TV antenna, and the direction the device is facing is critical for good reception. A qualified digital TV installation company would be able to identify the optimum location for the antenna, and using the latest technology, you can be assured of a crystal clear reception, whatever the weather conditions.

Types of Digital TV Antennas

There are two main types, the first being true digital antennas, which are specifically designed for digital TV, whereas digital ready antennas can convert the signal from an analogue TV into digital format. If you have a flat screen digital TV, you should opt for the true digital antenna as it offers a stronger signal reception and is more durable and long lasting. A digital ready antenna will also receive all the analogue channels, should you wish to view them at any time.

Digital Issues

Some viewers might experience glitches, with the message “no signal” periodically appearing, with some pixilation occurring, and if your viewing pleasure is affected in any way, it is important to contact a registered antenna technician, who can quickly identify the problem and fix it. If you live in Australia, you’ll be happy to know that the government has set up the Antenna Installer Endorsement Scheme to ensure that all antenna installations conform to the required standards, so if you ever need the help of the experts, make sure they are approved installers.

Professional Advice

Whether you already have digital TV and are experiencing problems, or you have yet to sample the multi-channel viewing experience, it makes sense to consult a company that is experienced. If you are living in Western Australia, Coastal Antenna offer a fast and efficient service in all things connected with TV reception, and we are always happy to advise on how to get optimum reception for a range of broadcasters.

Digital TV offers much more in terms of program variation, and combined with the Internet, is likely to be a major player for many decades. More and more homeowners are making the switch from analogue to digital, and with more channels coming out, the viewer is definitely spoilt for choice.