October 2010 date for analogue switch-off


The Czech Communications Authority (CTU) has unveiled its roadmap for digital switchover with 10th October 2010 being set as the date for analogue switch over to be completed.
The announcement has caused tension between the traditional commercial broadcasters on the analogue platform (TV Prima and TV Nova) and new broadcasters who have been granted licenses to transmit on the DTT platform.
Both TV Prima and TV Nova think that the 2010 date is too soon whilst the other broadcasters granted DTT licences think that the date should be brought forward.
Broadcasters on the DTT platform expect that analogue switch-off will provide a level playing field for all broadcasters whilst traditional broadcasters say that the amount of advertising revenue available will not be able to sustain a free to view platform. Both TV Prima and TV Nova have also been allocated licenses for the DTT platform.
Main source: Digitag
Quoted source: Prague Post
Item added: 15th August 2006