Frequently Asked Questions

Cable and satellite service subscribers will not be affected by the shift to digital broadcasts. Reception through cable and satellite will continue as usual using the converters provided by the cable/satellite companies. Subscribers using an analog cable TV converter will likewise not be affected, and will be able to continue viewing broadcasts as usual.

 You will need to purchase an Idan+ reception kit, which you can buy at most electronic equipment stores and outlets, and at post office branches for a one-time payment and without paying a subscription fee. The Second Authority does not issue endorsements or standards for reception kits. Prices for Idan+ broadcast converters vary according to model, technical specifications, and place of purchase. The Second Authority recommends you ensure that the equipment fulfils the minimal technical requirements needed to operate the service, as detailed on the Second Authority’s web-site. Possible Idan+ reception kits include

Digital converter and dedicated antenna: in order to view Idan+ broadcasts using your old television set, this needs to be connected to the converter and dedicated antenna.

A television with an internal digital converter and dedicated antenna: You can also view Idan+broadcasts using a new television set that incorporates its own internal digital converter, and connecting a dedicated antenna to the television set. At present, internal digital converters may be found in most wide-screen LCD television sets. These preclude the need for purchasing an external converter. When buying a new television, we recommend checking whether the television interface supports Hebrew, to ensure proper operation of the Electronic Program Guide (EPG) and hidden subtitles.

Portable reception kit: To view Idan+ broadcasts using a portable or desktop computer, you can purchase a USB device and dedicated antenna. Install the software using the supplied disk, and scan for available channels in accordance with the instructions, after connecting the antenna to the device . You can also view Idan+ broadcasts using a portable monitor.

The digital converter is a device that receives digital signals and decodes them. Using a digital converter, you may view Idan+ television broadcasts of Israel’s free-to-air channels – 1, 2, 10, 33 & 99.

In accordance with the Second Authority for Television and Radio Order (assistance for purchasing a converter) (temporary order), 5771-2010, the State will provide a subsidy of up to 50% of the purchase price for an Idan+ reception kit to financially disadvantaged families, based on criteria specified in the Order. Implementation of the Order is the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance. Its execution and remuneration for purchase will begin in 2011. The public will be informed. Meanwhile, we suggest keeping receipts of purchase for converters.

Electronic supply stores and outlets offer three kinds of antennas adapted to Idan+ broadcasts. The Second Authority recommends checking that the equipment fulfils the minimal technical requirements, as specified in the Second Authority’s website. Most converters are sold with a Whip-Stick antenna. The Second Authority recommends, where needed, the purchase of a stronger antenna for improved reception: a Yagi antenna or an active inside (oblong) antenna. When placing the antenna, it is important to test various locations in the room to find the ideal spot for reception. More massive Yagi antennas are available for roof-top installation, for use in places where reception is particularly poor inside the home. The considerations for selecting an antenna are different, based on location, type of converter, etc. You can forward any questions you may have to the Idan+ technical staff using the on-line query form or by calling the Helpline at *9524.

At present, and in accordance with the Law for the Second Authority for Television and Radio, the Second Authority is transmitting only television channels 1, 2, 10, 33 & 99 over the digital network. However, the Authority is technically prepared to add radio stations to Idan+. Currently, you can hear classical music on channel 6. Also, the Knesset is deliberating the expansion of the Idan+ service to include radio. If required by legislation to add radio, the Authority will act in accordance. Adding radio stations will not be subject to an additional payment or the purchase of a new device. When this occurs, merely perform a new scan on the converter.

Two channels are in use in the center of the country: UHF 29 (wavelength – 538 MHz) towards Haifa and Netanya, and UHF 26 (wavelength – 514 MHz) towards Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. To find the channel that best suits your area, initiate an automatic scan. In some devices, both channels will be identified, enabling you to choose.

The Electronic Program Guide provides information on programs currently being broadcast, as well as future schedules up to seven days in advance. The guide includes the name of the program, its transmission slot (day & time) and other information, such as rating and genre, repeat broadcast, hidden subtitles and additional subtitles. The Electronic Program Guide provides programming information for the five channels transmitted over the Idan+ network. To view the information, press the EPG (or ‘info’) button on the converter’s remote control. We recommend checking before purchase that the device supports Hebrew characters to ensure proper operation of the service.

Standard Definition (SD) broadcasts are broadcasts displaying standard quality picture. At present, Idan+ transmits SD broadcasts. However, the quality of those broadcasts is higher than that of regular analog transmission.

The Authority is technically prepared to provide high definition broadcasts. The addition of such channels will require a technological upgrade and legislative amendment. Once this happens, the Second Authority will act in accordance.