Digital TV is causing much excitement here after many of the 24 digital TV channels began their broadcast trials from April 1.
Digital TV set-top boxes sold at shops in Klong Thom.
Although most TV viewers are still confused about how to watch the new digital TV channels, they are not sitting on their hands. They are very active in looking for information on the internet about the right viewing solution. Their information hunting made digital TV a popular online buzz on many websites and social media.
However, if viewers want to watch digital TV channels, they have two ways to view them. The first is to watch digital TV via the satellite and cable system. All a viewer has to do is unplug their set-top box and plug it back in to get an automatic box re-boost and a new channel line-up.
The satellite and cable platforms have different channel line-ups as the regulator allows them to arrange the first 10 channels on their own.
Those who watch TV via terrestrial system must use a digital set-top box to receive digital TV signals, according to the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
Consumers planning to buy a digital set-top box from any retailer should realise that there are many boxes offered by licensed providers. They differ in design, price, technology and brand and here are some suggestions from the experts for consumers to choose the right box.
Thanongsak Sukhanindr, acting director for mobile TV and TV at the NBTC, said set-top box prices differ according to whether they are 1.2.1 and 1.3.1 versions.
The 1.2.1 version is the minimum standard of set-top box imposed by the NBTC to receive digital TV signals. The 1.3.1 version is the advanced technology version that will support mobility and is usually adopted for mobile TV.
The advanced technology of the 1.3.1 box makes its about 400 baht more expensive than the 1.2.1 version.
Mr Thanongsak said there are five important things to look for when buying a set box.
Firstly, the set-top box must have the Garuda mark by the NBTC to show it came from a licensed provider.
Secondly, you should test signal sensitivity before buying the box and a sales staff must test whether the box can receive the signals or not. The signal sensitivity is the most important issue to decide which set-top box is the best one for you.
After the test, you should adjust the set-top box to every direction with an antenna. If the TV motions still appear on screen, this means the set-top box is fine.
"You should apply the same test with the other set-top box brands and then decide which one offers the clearest picture," he said.
Thirdly, the set-top box must support software updates.
Fourthly, you should consider other factors such as warranty and active antenna before making a purchase.
Lastly, you should consider the quality of attached electrical materials such as heat ventilation and lifespan for adaptor and plug.
The pricing differences for set-top boxes depend on warranty, attached equipment quality and extra features such as sound technology.
If consumers watch TV in high-rise condominiums or office buildings, the signal coverage might not be good enough. So, they need a small antenna to install with the set-top box to pick up the signals.
Choice of antenna depends on amplifier and software. The NBTC recommends consumers choose the 28dB model, the minimum standard for digital TV antenna.
You need not remove the old antenna on your roof as you can connect its line with the digital TV set-top box, if the antenna's direction is in the same direction as the digital TV broadcast tower.
For those who want to buy a new TV set, Mr Thanongsak said they should buy an integrated digital TV (iDTV) with built-in signal tuner.
For those who want a TV without built-in signal tuner, they should buy an LED or LCD TV with two HDMI ports to access both digital TV and home entertainment devices such as a DVD player.