The Department of Communications has issued a warning over the compatibility of TVs as the switchover from analogue to digital in the Republic draws closer.

The switchover will mean a change to Ireland's TV standard, with the current analogue TV standard ceasing to be used by broadcasters here after the analogue switch off on the 24th October next year.

From next year, all TVs must be compatible with the new standard, which works with the new digital free to air network, Saorview.

Minister for Communications, Pat Rabbitte asked retailers to be mindful of the change in Irish broadcasting standards and to ensure the availability of a wide range of Saorview approved TV equipment well in advance of the 2012 deadline.

“We have just over 11 months until the old analogue TV network is switched off. I would ask retailers to ensure that the TVs and other TV receivers they are selling are compatible with the digital standard being used in Ireland. Only televisions meeting this standard are guaranteed to provide free to air access to the national digital television network.”

The Minister also requested retailers to inform their customers of the new standard so that they have all the necessary information when purchasing their TV equipment.

In order to receive Saorview, it is not necessary to buy a new television as all sets bought from the mid 1990s or later should be capable of being upgraded to Saorview by using a Saorview approved set top box.

Minister Rabbitte also recommended that those who may need to buy a new television familiarise themselves with the questions to ask when buying a new digital television or a set top box.

Mr Rabitte said: “I would urge all consumers to become aware of this change in standard and remember to ask your retailer some important questions when buying a new television set, – Will this television show the new Irish digital TV service, Saorview? Is this TV Saorview approved?

"Consumers should look out for the Saorview approved logo on TV sets and set top boxes as this means that the TV has undergone stringent tests to ensure that it will work to receive Saorview.”

Further consumer related guidance is available on: www.goingdigital.ie

(DW)