A warning has been issued to citizens of East Lancashire today as it has been revealed that televisions could go blank due to a super-speed broadband that will be introduced.
The reason TV’s may suffer is because of a disruption to people’s Freeview programming that is transmitted through an aerial, because of the 4G service that is being provided throughout Lancashire.
Televisions and set-top boxes that receive a basic satellite package often fail to block the 4G signals – which operate on 800MHz and is next to the frequencies used by Freeview – causing interference such as a loss of sound, blocked style images or loss of some or all channels.
However, an independent organisation, At800, has been created to ensure viewers continue to receive their favourite channels.
At800 is funded by the major mobile phone operators which are launching 4G – O2, Three, EE and Vodaphone.
If a viewer lives in a house with its own aerial, does not have satellite or cable television and interference from 4G at 800MHz is diagnosed as causing disruption, the firm will restore their television service to its previous quality.
At800 will arrange for an accredited engineer to visit the viewer’s home, check the cause and fit an approved filter to the TV at no cost to the viewer. In most cases, disruption will be fixed by an at800 filter.
Ben Roome, chief executive of at800, said: “New 4G mobile masts are bringing mobile broadband to East Lancashire but they do have the potential to disrupt TV reception for some households.
“We’re already helping viewers in the area and continue to offer support .”
Anna Schaverien, of at800, added: “We want Freeview viewers in these areas to be aware that if they experience any new disruption to their Freeview service, there’s a chance this might be due to new 4G mobile signals .
“Our role is to make sure that viewers can still watch Freeview or are offered a suitable alternative.”
For advice on avoiding disruptions, call freephone number 0808 13 13 800 or visit here.
