THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) will in the next two months distribute 50 000 set boxes in a move that will enable local television viewers to access more television stations.
Set boxes are devices that convert a digital television signal to analogue to be viewed on a conventional television set. This will give viewers access to all Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) channels which are free-to-air.
BAZ chief executive officer Tendai Kaphuma confirmed the development and said the set boxes arrived in February and lack of detailed rollout matrix for the devices had delayed distribution.
“There was a need for necessary consultation and communication plan as to what this means and what it will be resolving and how the general public could access them and technical support set-up across the nation by the manufacturer.
“These initial 50 000 units are meant to stimulate the market and private providers should also participate. BAZ will approve set boxes that can work on our DTT platform,” he said. Kaphuma added that the cost of the units would vary with distribution costs, which currently range between US$21 to US$26. —New Ziana
