Freeview TV reception might not be as badly effected by incoming 4G signals as first feared, initial tests into the matter have suggested.
With fears that the UK’s imminent 4G switch on would see the 800MHz spectrum cause widespread disruption to Freeview TV users across the country, tests carried out by the at800 group have found that far fewer residences have experienced problems that first expected.
Having performed an early test across the West Midlands in recent weeks, the study found that the 800MHz spectrum, which will give EE a number a 4G network rivals, caused issues to the Freeview signals of just 15 of a potential 22,000 homes.
With a £180 million fund having been bestowed to the at800 group in order to minimise disruption to those negatively affected by the 4G rollout, homes which are found to have lost TV reception following the launch will receive a free signal booster box. Complimentary installation, provided by the fund will also be made available to those who need it.
"This was a useful, small-scale test. Further extensive evaluation will occur during April and May as masts are switched on for tests across larger urban areas," Simon Beresford-Wylie, CEO of at800 said.
Last year regulatory body Ofcom predicted that as many as 2.3 million homes could lose part or all of their television reception, with those located near 4G signal stations worst affected. EE’s current 4G network avoids such issues by using the 1800MHz frequency.
Via: Telegraph
