An EU mandate took steps to introduce the Irish nation with Digital Terrestrial Television. The analogue switch took place during October 2012. On that month, the trial phase of the Saorview became available to the 90% of Irish residents. It allowed them to enjoy a free viewing of the digital television, with the help from the Walker-set top box. The newly introduced service incorporated the RTE1, RTE2 as well as the RTE Mewsa and The TG4 as the first channels to air. The service later expanded to the #eand the TV3, as well as multiple radio stations.

But, what this new digital terrestrial services recently introduced to Ireland is all about? At the launching of the innovative digital trial, Cathal Goan, the RTE director, described the Saorview as being a major change in the Irish broadcasting services that offered viewers across the country the opportunity to view more channels in HD picturing, as well as the higher-quality sound, digital teletext and the programme menus available on-screen. However, a closer look at the Saorview showed that the HD picture was not yet available and was scheduled to be by Spring 2011.

As the RTENL had enticed the free public viewing as well as the pending HD availability, interactive shows, movie channels as well as drama and sports. The pressure remains on the realization of this vision and the creation of generating reality though integrated digital TV or the approved top box set.

At the current time, the RTE offers a limited number of top boxes that are approved and both come from Walker Technology. This absence of competition hinders the price competitiveness. The manufacturers that are involved in the industry of digital terrestrial television will need to take action to repair this situation. The prices of the set-top box are still high due to the difference in the specification compared to the EU.

However, this might change soon since the appearance of the Fortech Star HD receiver and the Triax TR110 DT receiver. When choosing, pay attention to the presence of the HD and PVR so that your box is ready to work with any future changes that come along. It would also be wise to own a box that has Mheg5 software to be able to support the upcoming interactive interface. Another alternative is to go with a combination of a digital terrestrial and a satellite in a single box. The best pick for this on would be the Edison Argus Combo and the Edison VIP2 satellite.

Sadly, the Government of Ireland is taking a lot of time when it comes to embracing new technologies. The hope remains that they will be forced to make a change once the analogue signal shuts down in 2012 and people themselves accept the change.

It remains a question whether or not the Irish people will be able to enjoy domestic free satellite TV. there is a paid option for residents to sign up to us Sky, but they will be paying for a service that is already available for free.

Florin is an promotion expert with deep knowledge using client information and data to develop and produce alternatives that achieve wonderful client experience and professional advantage.