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The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) launched an on-line database service today (January 15) for the public to access via the internet information on Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) coverage on a building-by-building basis.
A spokesman for OFTA said, "This is an initiative by OFTA for the convenience of the public to enquire about DTT services coverage for residential buildings."
"Following the release of the database, members of the public who wish to enquire about DTT services coverage at specific residential buildings may access the database at OFTA's website (http://app1.ofta.gov.hk/apps/dtt/content/disclaimer.asp?language=English). Enquirers are only required to key in simple location information, such as street name or name of building/estate for retrieval of the requested coverage information," the spokesman elaborated.
The first phase of DTT services covers the northern part of Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon peninsula, part of Shatin and the eastern part of Lantau Island, amounting to around 50% of the population in Hong Kong.
"Since the launch of DTT services on December 31, 2007, OFTA's hotline has received over a thousand public enquiries in connection with the services. The majority of the enquiries received are related to the coverage of DTT services at specific locations or residential buildings. The introduction of the on-line database service should be able to provide the public with ready information for that purpose," the spokesman continued.
"However, users should note that the coverage information provided is for reference only. The information is an estimation based on a computer model used by OFTA for planning of DTT services. There may be variations with respect to the actual coverage, which is subject to various environmental factors in the vicinity of the concerned residential building, such as blockage and reflections of man-made structures," the spokesman emphasised.
"Based on the computer estimation, there is marginal coverage at some residential buildings which warrants verification by actual on-site measurement. If the building is equipped with a communal aerial distribution system, residents should check with their building management office or the Incorporated Owners who may then in turn check with the concerned contractor about the actual reception. The residents may also contact OFTA directly for assistance. Upon receiving such requests, OFTA will send field teams to conduct on-site measurement before providing the information," the spokesman added.
Members of the public may address their enquiries to OFTA at 8102 4100 if they require any advice or assistance concerning the reception of DTT services.
Ends/Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Issued at HKT 09:33
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