Analogue Switch Off (ASO)
Analogue terrestrial television in Ireland was switched off on Wednesday, 24th October 2012.
SAORVIEW is the digital free-to-air television service that replaced the analogue system which had been in operation since 1962.
Why the switch to digital?
Digital television is the biggest change in broadcasting since the move from black and white to colour. The switch to digital is positive for Irish viewers and for our economy.
For viewers, digital TV offers more channels, high definition (HD) pictures and sound, on-screen programme guides and new interactive services.
The EU decided that the end of 2012 would be the final date for ASO in Europe. Moving to digital freed up the airwaves so Ireland can have more communications services such as broadband and mobile TV.
• Government has estimated that the Irish economy will benefit by up to €500 million over the next decade as a result of the switch to digital television.
Digital Switchover (DSO) Information Campaign
The switch from analogue to digital was both national and EU policy. The Government department with lead responsibility was the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (DCENR).
In August 2010, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources established a Digital Switch Over Steering Group, with additional working groups, to manage the switch from analogue to digital television.
More information on the Digital Switch Over can be found at: www.goingdigital.ie