Aberdeen-based AVC Media Enterprises is taking the lead with the digital switchover, urging all offshore vessels and onshore organisations to ensure they make adjustments in time for the analogue signal switch-off in 2010.

The media and communications experts, who work in partnership with British Sky Broadcasting Ltd to provide offshore entertainment to installations, fishing fleets, ferries, yachts, support ships and MoD vessels in the North Sea, recommend thorough planning to prevent loss of services.

George Carnegie, Director of AVC Media Enterprises’ Audiovisual division explained:

“With 2010 just over 4 months away it is essential to plan now for the digital switchover. This is particularly significant to operators who might have a large number of installations and vessels to consider, or for large organisations such as nursing homes, hotels and hospitals. Strategic switchover planning will enable organisations to consider upgrade or adaptation options and make time for installation prior to the digital switch over. This way, organisations will ensure digital entertainment remains a viable option throughout the North-east and the North Sea.

“By tailoring a switchover plan, organisations and offshore operators will be able to consider additional budgetary requirements essential to this change. Some aerial systems, particularly communal systems used to provide television signals to a number of different locations, might also need some upgrading and maintenance.”

AVC’s audiovisual team is currently working on and offshore to maintain, upgrade and install digital technologies across Scotland, UK and Europe before the switchover.

Aberdeenshire’s Durris transmitter is due for switchover in September 2010.

For more information on the digital switchover, tailoring an upgrade or a general audiovisual enquiry contact George Carnegie on 01224 248007 or by email gcarnegie@avcmedia.com

AVC’s subsidiary company, Remote Data Services is a member of the Confederation of Aerial Industries which is the recognised body for the aerial and satellite industry

For a full list of transmitter switchover dates visit www.digitaluk.co.uk/when_do_i_switch/