How to tackle poor reception
December 2011
Digital TV is already available to most households across Australia meaning that you don’t need to wait until analog TV is switched off to access the 16 free-to-air digital channels. To check the digital channels available in your area, visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call 1800 20 10 13.
While converting to digital TV is relatively easy for most people some people may experience some difficulties. The good news is that most of these issues are easily fixed. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure you are getting the best out of your digital TV.
- 1. Retune your set-top box or digital TV
This is an easy step that can often improve reception. To retune follow the instructions in the manufactures manual for your set-top box or digital TV. You may need to retune more than once to tune in all channels that are available in your area.
- 2. Ensure you antenna is set up correctly
You should ensure that you have the right antenna for the TV services in your area, that is pointing to the correct transmitter and that the antenna is correctly ‘polarized’ – either vertically or horizontally. To check what antenna you need and how it should be set up visit the mySwitch tool on www.digitalready.gov.au and enter your address or call the Digital Ready Information Line on 1800 20 10 13.
- 3. Make sure your equipment is good condition
Equipment such as antennas, cables, connections and plugs that are not in good condition can contribute to poor reception.
There are other issues such as a TV signals being too strong or weak, signal obstructions, and impulse noise that may also affect digital TV reception. To find out more there is a range of factsheets and videos tutorials available to help. If you continue to experience poor digital TV reception you can also contact an Australian Government Endorsed Antenna Installer.
If you rent your home and need an external antenna or live in a flat or apartment with a shared antenna system, you should consult your landlord or owners corporation if any changes are needed to your antenna set-up.
If you are unable to receive digital TV from a local TV transmitter, you may be eligible to access the government-funded Viewer Access Satellite (VAST) service.
For more information on predicted digital TV coverage, how to improve your reception, the VAST service and contact details of local Endorsed Antenna Installers visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call 1800 20 10 13.