Frequently Asked Questions
What is digital terrestrial television broadcasting?
Digital terrestrial television broadcasting is a system for transmitting television signals digitally through ground-based (terrestrial) transmission stations. This is different from the currently used terrestrial system, which is analog. For viewers, digital transmission means a sharper picture and less disturbances and shadows, which characterize analog transmissions. Analog and digital systems differ in the manner in which information is conveyed from the source to the television set. Simply stated, the analog signal resembles a continuous wave, whereas the digital signal comprises information that is translated into distinct signals.
Moreover, digital transmission includes an electronic program guide (EPG) and subtitles for the hearing impaired, to some extent, in accordance with the Law (both will be included in commercial channels 2 & 10).
What is IDAN+?
IDAN is the Hebrew acronym for Arutzim Yisraelim Digitaliyim Negishim (Accessible Israeli Digital Channels), and this is the name that has been given to the Israeli digital television transmission array. The system was established in accordance with an amendment to the Law for the Second Authority for Television & Radio, 5750-1990. This enables free-to-air reception of public channels 1, 2, 10, 33 & 99, as required by the Law, for a one-time purchase fee.
IDAN+ experimental transmissions began in August 2009, since which time the Authority has been setting up an array of transmitters throughout the country in accordance with a mapping and measurements plan. During the experimental transmission period, the Authority has been improving transmissions and making them more efficient throughout the country.
What channels can I receive through Digital Terrestrial Television Transmissions?
As required by the Law, and following a decision by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority to join the array, channels currently transmitted include 1, 2, 10, 33 & 99. The Law only requires the transmission of these channels. If – through legislation – additional channels will be required, the Authority will act accordingly.
Can radio transmissions also be received through IDAN+?
Currently, and in accordance with the Law, only television broadcasts are being transmitted. If – through legislation – changes or additional channels will be required, the Authority will act accordingly.
What are the advantages of digital transmissions?
Digital transmissions provide the viewer with: - Access to the five main public broadcast channels, without subscription fees and for a one-time purchase outlay.
- High-quality video and audio.
- Electronic program guide (EPG), hidden subtitles services and more.
- User-friendly installation and use.
- Portable reception of television broadcasts.
Will I be able to continue using my existing television set after analog transmissions are discontinued?
Your existing television set can continue serving you in this new age of digital terrestrial transmissions.
If you are currently receiving analog transmissions using a regular antenna, you will be required to purchase a digital converter (STB – DVB-T) once analog transmissions are discontinued (February 2011) and connect it to your television in order to watch digital terrestrial broadcasts. For now, and until analog transmissions cease, both systems are being used for transmitting channels 1, 2 & 33.
You may purchase converters at most electronics and household appliance stores. We recommend you ensure that the converter you purchase fulfils the technical requirements recommended by the Second Authority. Converters are not approved by the Second Authority and there is no obligatory standard for such receivers. Over the coming months, the Ministry of Finance will publish an ordinance according to which the State will subsidize the purchase of receivers at a fixed level for socio-economic sectors that adhere to the criteria to be established.
What equipment do I need to receive digital television broadcasts?
To receive digital television broadcasts, you can use one of the following arrays: - A digital converter (STB – DVB-T) and DTT antenna. Note that each television set requires its own converter. You cannot use one converter for several television sets, or:
- An integrated (LCD) television set with its own internal digital tuner (DVB-T) and DTT antenna, or:
A portable digital reception peripheral – equipment that enables reception using a portable or desktop computer (a USB peripheral), or portable monitors that can receive digital transmission.Before purchasing your equipment, we recommend checking whether the proposed model is suitable and includes a DTT antenna, and that it adheres to the Authority’s recommendations.
Will I be required to undertake any special installations at home?
Installing the digital equipment is simple and easy. All you need is to connect the converter to an electrical source and to the television set, connect the DTT antenna and scan the channels (in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions). You do not need a technician to install the equipment. To watch an instruction clip, click here.
What is a digital converter?
The digital converter (STB – DVB-T) is a device that enables the reception of digital transmissions using a television set. The device receives the digital signal and decodes it, converting it to a signal that can be used by the television set. A television that receives analog signals will thus also be able to receive digital signals, so long as the converter is connected to it. Once the converter is connected, it provides improved reception, equal to standard transmission (SD – standard definition).
There is a variety of converters on the market, each with its own specifications, which are detailed along with the product. The Second Authority recommends you ensure that the equipment fulfils the technical requirements defined by it required equipment. The Second Authority does not approve converters and there is no required standard.
What is an integrated television / digital tuner?
This is a television that can receive digital transmissions without need of an external converter. The television set incorporates all the components required for decoding and displaying digital broadcasts.
It should be noted that there is a variety of wide-screen (LCD) television sets that include an integrated digital tuner (DVB-T). These must be connected to a DTT antenna.
How can I receive broadcasts using a computer of portable receiver?
To receive digital broadcasts using a portable or desktop computer, you will need a USB digital reception peripheral and DTT antenna.
There is a variety of additional portable devices on the market that also enable digital reception.
Must I purchase an antenna?
Most devices include a DTT antenna. However, if the need arises, the Second Authority recommends you use a special DTT antenna that may improve reception, based on the signal strength in the area. There is a wide variety of antennas (passive, active, interior/exterior) that enhance reception. Choosing the correct antenna may be subject to location. We suggest that, if your reception is poor, you try placing the antenna outside the home, but only as a default. If reception problems remain unsolved, please contact us by phone (*9524) or through our enquiry form and report any reception problem.
I am a satellite/cable subscriber and have a decoder. Will the changeover affect me?
Digital terrestrial transmissions have no bearing on cable or satellite services.
Cable and satellite subscriber will not be affected by the changeover to digital transmissions. Reception via cable or satellite will continue as before, using the decoder supplied by the company. Subscribers using an analog decoder will also not be affected by the changeover and will continue to receive their channels as before.
To what channel should I adjust the converter?
In Israel, two frequencies are being used - UHF channel 29 (central frequency 538 megahertz) and UHF channel 26 (central frequency 514 megahertz). In the north and south of the country, use channel 29, and in the center use channel 26. Both channels will be automatically adjusted upon initiating a regular auto-scan. For a digital transmissions system diagram, click here.
To what frequency should I adjust the converter in the center of the country?
In this area, both frequencies will work – UHF channel 29 between Haifa and Netanya (central frequency 538 megahertz) and UHF channel 26 from Jerusalem towards Tel Aviv (central frequency 514 megahertz). People living in this area should try both frequencies and select the one that works best. Usually, areas closer to Haifa (than to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv) will receive better quality over channel 29, whereas those closer to Tel Aviv will receive better quality over channel 26. Either channel will be automatically found using an auto-scan on the converter. Where both channels can be received, the converter will automatically select them both and enable you to choose. Where an outside antenna is in use (on the roof or on a veranda) it should be directed, by experimenting locally, to attain the best reception possible.
I am experiencing reception problems. What should I do?
At present, stage 2 of the system integration is underway, during which 9 additional transmitters have been situated throughout the country for reception improvement. The digital terrestrial array is still being tested, and the Second Authority is continuing to monitor levels in order to attain the best possible coverage throughout the country,
If you are experiencing reception problems, an improved antenna may solve the problem. You should also telephone us (*9524) or contact us using the enquiry form and report any problems you may have.
Who is eligible for assistance in purchasing a digital converter?
By law, the State will support the purchase of a digital converter (STB – DVB-T) for financially disadvantaged households. The subsidy mechanism and conditions are to be determined by the Ministry of Finance and approved by the Knesset’s Finance Committee. Following this, information will be published by the Ministry, and we will inform the public. At this point, we recommend saving your purchase receipts until the publication of any relevant information.
Will the changeover to digital affect IBA license payments?
No. Payment of the license fee is in accordance with the Law for Financing Public Broadcasting (Israel Broadcasting Authority). This has no bearing on the manner in which broadcasts are transmitted.
What is the electronic program guide (EPG)?
The electronic program guide provides information regarding programs on the air and future programming, time slots (date and time) and additional characteristics (rating and marking/repeats/hidden subtitles/ additional subtitles).
The guide is being transmitted as part of the experimental transmissions of channels 2 & 10, and in the future will be expanded to include additional channels being broadcasted on the IDAN+ system. The guide can be accessed by pressing the EPG button on the converter’s remote control.
We recommend that, when purchasing you digital converter (STB – DVB-T), the technical specifications include support for the electronic program guide (EPG).
What are hidden subtitles?
Channel 2 & 10’s main news programs and other live programs are broadcast with hidden subtitles for the hearing impaired, in accordance with the regulations of the Television Law (subtitles and sign language). Programs accompanied by such subtitles are designated thus with a  . We recommend that, when purchasing a digital converter (STB – DVB-T), the technical specifications include support for this service and that hidden subtitle transmissions can be received. Subtitles can be accessed by pressing the subtitles button on the converter’s remote control.
What is SD (standard definition) television reception?
Digital television transmission in Israel is - for the moment - in standard definition. However, it should be noted that digital transmissions are of a higher quality than analog transmissions.
What is HD (high definition) television reception?
High definition transmission, not currently offered by the IDAN+ system, is an improved method of digital television transmission that provides higher quality picture and sound, compared to existing analog transmissions. This is based on a higher horizontal and vertical picture resolution – up to twice that of traditional analog transmission. This form of transmission is appropriate for wide-screen monitors, since higher resolution is most apparent in larger screens and video projectors.
HD broadcasts require a more extensive array of components. Most viewers do not own the appropriate equipment, and the amount of programs being broadcast using this technology are few; thus, for now, the feasibility of addressing this affair is low.
At this point, inquiries are being made to examine the possibility and feasibility of HD transmission using the IDAN+ system in the future.
For additional information, please telephone the Second Authority at
*9524 (in Israel) or using our
online enquiry form.
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