:: 20/04/2010

Portugal - Anacom publishes consultation on ASO plan

The communications regulator Anacom has opened a consultation on its proposed plan for analogue switch-off. It is seeking feedback until 18 May 2010.

According to the plan, analogue switch-off will take place in three phases each consisting of 7 days. The first phase will begin on 7 January 2012 and switch-off analogue services in the coastal zone of the mainland. On 22 March 2012, the second phase will begin in regions of Madeira and Azores. The process will be completed with analogue switch-off in the remainder of the mainland on on 26 April 2012

Anacom is also proposing that several analogue switch-off pilots take place in first half of 2011 in order to prepare for switch-off and raise viewer awareness.

The Council of Minister resolution 26/2009 dated 17 March 2009 sets 26 April 2012 as the date for the completion of analogue switch-off. However, switch-off by this date is contingent on reaching full population coverage (~100%) on the free-to-air multiplex (MUX A) by the end of 2010. Currently, DTT services are available to 80% of the population.

The launch of the commercial DTT platform has not yet been confirmed.

Source: Anacom website