[opendtv] Teletext assists aerial strength test

We need something like that here. A real-world test, which consumers
could do on their own, to have a clue whether they are ready for Feb
2009.

Bert

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http://www.dtg.org.uk/news/news.php?class=countries&subclass=0&id=2452

Teletext assists aerial strength test

Analogue teletext is being used to determine whether homes will need new
aerials after digital switchover. According to the BBC, around 10% of
domestic aerials will need attention in order to receive digital
transmissions. The difficulty has been developing a reliable way of
letting viewers know they will need a new aerial.

As the BBC Innovation and Research's 2007 review explains, a test
pattern was designed which became less apparent as signal quality fell.
But while that technique showed the correct trend, "there was too much
spread on individual results to give a reliable indication".

Instead, BBC engineers working within the Digital Reception Prediction
Group at Digital UK, the industry-funded body charged with coordinating
digital switchover, came up with a test pattern using analogue teletext.

The test pattern, broadcast on page 284 on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1 and
Channel 4 and S4C, provides a more accurate and objective result. "Tests
have been successsful, with errors starting to show just at the point
where an aerial installation ought to be checked," says the annual
review.

A Digital UK spokesman told Lovelace Consulting that the teletext
innovation is being used in Whitehaven to determine aerial strength
ahead of the area's switchover-the UK's first-on October 17.

"We've produced a leaflet on how to test aerials, explaining the
teletext page and also providing a reference 'snowy' picture for people
to compare their reception to (if it's as or more snowy, they will
probably need a new aerial)," said the spokesman.

"The other method explained in the leaflet is to hire a Handheld Aerial
Checker from local retailers which you take home and plug in to test."

Lovelace Consulting 25.05.2007
 
 
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