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Digital TV: Everything you wanted to know
BANGALORE, INDIA: With digitalization of television networks in all four metros of the country due on July 1 this year, cable operators and multiple system operators (MSOs) are ready to meet the deadline with the necessary infrastructure, but it is essential to know if people are ready too.
As per the time-frame by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai will switch over to digital transmission by July 1, 2012, and the rest of the country by 2014.
Digitalization means that households with TV will receive digital signals routed through a Set Top Box (STB).
As the deadline approaches, there are several questions people are asking: What are the benefits of digitalization? How to check quality of set top box quality? Will it be expensive? etc. So, here we try to answer some of their questions.
Going digital means it provides better picture quality and sound. Currently, TV signals are distributed in two formats-- analog and digital. Most cable operators offer analog TV service while all DTH operators provide a digital TV service.
As part of digitalization, every cable operator will be legally bound to transmit digital signals, which can be received at the subscriber's home only through a Set Top Box.
There are several advantages like better quality picture and sound and enhanced services such as HD and Video on Demand (VOD), interactive services and the freedom to choose from a whole range of channels and pay only for those selected.
As far as getting a Set Top Box is concerned, it can be either procured from your existing cable operator or you can upgrade to a DTH operator. But be warned that if you don't buy a Set Top Box before June 1, you may not be able to continue watching cable television.
About the quality of Set Top Box, it is essential to draw a comparison between Set Top Box provided by Digital Cable and DTH. Other major points to be taken into consideration are to check if the service provider has only one variety of of Set Top or does he have a range of different types of Set Top Boxes to meet your requirements like a Standard definition box, a high definition box and a high definition digital video recorder box.
Importantly, check if the service provider gives a warranty on its Set Top Boxes.
In addition to TV channels, you will be able to choose from a range of interactive services. So, check with the service provider if he will give you a video on demand service which gives access to a large library of movies, TV shows and concerts.
Lastly, ask the following questions to your service provider
Can I make payment through a helpline, mobile or on the Internet?
Is there an option of recharge vouchers?
Will I have the option of paying only for those channels chosen by me?
