In relation to the problems encountered as a result of the transition of digital terrestrial television to the new DVB-T2 technology from the Hellas Sat network, the Department of Electronic Communications informs the public of the following:
-The transition to the new network requires a reconfiguration of television channels. If the TV set is of an older generation and does not support DVB-T2 technology, the citizen needs to get an external decoder.
-For the selection and supply of the appropriate decoder, citizens should contact the respective suppliers, who are responsible for properly informing and serving consumers regarding compatibility with DVB-T2 technology
-It has been found that some television receivers imported from Greece may require a change in the Regional Settings in another European region, as their software does not allow automatic tuning to the new frequencies.
-For all of the above, support is provided to citizens through the Hellas Sat call center, which operates daily until 21:00 at 22000737. Due to the increased number of calls, service delays may be observed. -However, the provider has pledged to contact all citizens whose calls could not be served immediately.
-In addition, several cases have been identified in which the problem is related to the reception installation or the internal wiring of the premises. Hellas Sat is committed to providing technical support for these issues as well.
The transition to the new network is a significant technological upgrade for Cyprus, which was among the last countries in Europe that had not yet adopted high-definition (HD) technology. The migration was also necessitated by the expiry of the previous provider's licence. The transmission system used by Velister did not provide for an obligation to transmit high-definition programmes, with the result that the reception requirements were higher than those required for HD programmes.
It is recalled that there was a three-month parallel transmission period between the two networks, as well as a public information campaign, so that citizens can take the appropriate actions in a timely manner.
The Department of Electronic Communications of the Deputy Ministry of Education and Science monitors the developments on a daily basis and is in constant communication with Hellas Sat, in order to ensure that the provider proceeds with the full restoration of the problems as soon as possible for all viewers who are experiencing reception problems.
