What is the Digital TV Switchover & why is it necessary?
Most developed countries have transitioned from analog to digital transmission, or are in the process of doing so. Digital broadcasting provides better picture quality and sound. Canadian over-the-air (OTA) broadcasters have been mandated by the Federal Government to convert from analog to digital transmission to make more efficient use of spectrum and ensure Canada advances to a more modern digital communications system.
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How will this transition take place and who will it impact?
This transition requires the conversion of OTA transmitters from their current analog broadcast format to digital. Analog OTA television stations are those that can be watched for free with a roof-top antenna or "rabbit ears". Households that only rely on an antenna or "rabbit ears" to view their television channels may be impacted by this transition and could lose the ability to watch programming over the air. The vast majority of Canadians will not be affected by this conversion because they receive their television signals via cable or satellite.
When and where will it happen?
The deadline for Canada's DTV transition is August 31, 2011. By this date, OTA stations in mandatory markets must cease analog broadcasting. Mandatory markets are:
• British Columbia: Vancouver and Victoria
• Alberta: Calgary, Edmonton, Lloydminster and Lethbridge
• Saskatchewan: Regina and Saskatoon
• Manitoba: Winnipeg
• Ontario: Toronto (including Barrie and Hamilton), London, Windsor, Kitchener and Thunder Bay
• Quebec: Montreal, Quebec, Trois-Rivières, Sherbrooke, Rivière-du-Loup, Saguenay and Rouyn-Noranda/Val d'Or
• New Brunswick: Saint John, Moncton and Fredericton
• Nova Scotia: Halifax
• Prince Edward Island: Charlottetown
• Newfoundland and Labrador: St. John's
• Yukon: Whitehorse
• Nunavut: Iqaluit
• National Capital Region (Ottawa-Gatineau)
OTA stations in other markets may continue broadcasting in analog after the transition but could opt to switch to digital or cease broadcasting OTA altogether and rely on cable or satellite to distribute their service.
Will it impact you? If so, what you need to do to receive your television stations
To find out if you need to purchase any equipment first you must determine if your television is equipped with a digital tuner. Look for the term "digital tuner" or "ATSC tuner" or "integrated tuner" on your television or consult your owner's manual. If it is not, to continue to watch OTA television after August 31, 2011 you have a few options:
1. Subscribe to a television service provider like Rogers Cable:
Rogers TV service offers you:
• Over 30 channels with shows from all the major Canadian and U.S. Networks
• Local and International news and weather
• Reliable and clear reception
• Ability to upgrade to digital and HD
2. Purchase a TV with a digital tuner and a combined VHF/UHF Antenna; or
3. Purchase a digital-to-analog (DTA) convertor box and a combined VHF/UHF Antenna.
What is a DTA converter box?
A DTA converter box connects to your television set and converts digital television signals to analog, for display on a standard analog
television. A DTA box is required for each analog television.
Where can I purchase a DTA converter box?
DTA converter boxes are available at most electronics retail outlets and specialty stores.
How do I use a DTA converter box?
DTA converter boxes attach to your TV with basic coaxial cables which should be included in the package
Why do I need an antenna??
A VHF/UHF antenna will provide a stronger signal especially in remote areas. They can also be purchased at most electronics retail outlets.
What kind of antenna do I need to receive digital TV signals?
To receive the strongest digital TV signal it is recommended you use a combined VHF/UHF antenna.
How do you continue to watch Citytv?
If you receive your television signals via cable or satellite this transition will not affect you.
If you choose option 2 or 3, as of August 31, 2011 the new Citytv channels will be:
| |
Current Channel |
New Channel |
| Citytv Toronto |
57 |
44 |
| Citytv Ottawa |
65 |
17 |
| Citytv Woodstock/London |
31 |
31 |
Note: Signal reception may vary depending on location and reception contours.