Bangkok--10 Apr--Thaicom
Thaicom steps forward for digital-TV broadcasting, upgrading the new channel order for Ku-band frequency after the successful C-Band frequency upgrading and channel ordering to drive Thailand's digital-TV trial run through satellite network
Nonthaburi, April 10 2014: Thaicom Public Company Limited, Thailand’s satellite operator, prepare to implement the 2nd phase of the digital-TV trial run. Following to the success of transition in C-band frequency which was upgraded on 1 April, the Ku-Band signal will be undergoing over-the-air (OTA) upgrading process in channel numbering and signal tuning for existing set-top-boxes starting from 22 April. Thaicom has prepared to broadcast the Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) signals via Thaicom’s satellite network in accordance with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission’s Must Carry rule.
Mr.Paiboon Panuwattanawong, Chief Technical Officer of Thaicom PLC stated that, "After the successful broadcast of terrestrial-based digital-TV program starting 1 April endorsed by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, Thaicom has rearranged channel numbering and successfully updated the signal to existing C-band frequency’s set-top-boxes for the broadcasting of digital-TV programs since April 1st trial run. By working with TV platform and set-top-box providers, Thaicom will implement the 2nd phase for Ku-band frequency linked from Thaicom’s satellites through OTA process starting on April 22nd in order to improve audiences’s viewing pleasures.
To enhance transition and viewing experiences by update the latest channel numbers through OTA upgrading of the Ku-band, more than 90% of viewers who have already used the set-top-boxes with OTA feature will be able to receive the signal smoothly. The viewer using set-top-boxes with an OTA feature are encouraged to unplug the set-top-box for a few moments before re-connecting in order to reset the new channel numbers properly. Viewers without OTA enabled set-top-box are advised to contact their service provider or installer to refine the satellite tuning.
“Thaicom continues to support the transition of Thailand’s broadcasting industry from analogue to digital. As a Satellite operator providing digital-TV broadcasting, Thaicom is well-prepared and is able to broadcast the digital-TV at the first day of the trial period. Thaicom will always work closely with TV platform and set-top-box provider to ensure each program broadcasted over Thaicom’s satellites network are received efficiently on every platforms both C-band and Ku-band. Thaicom also aimed to enhancing the viewers’s experience by delivering the high quality picture and sound to the audiences all over the country, and intend to support the growth of broadcasting industry to gain benefits to Thai people.” Mr.Paiboon added.