KINGSWINFORD residents can access free support to fix Freeview interference now 4G has been switched on in the area.
Fourth generation mobile services (4G) give people faster access to the internet on smartphones and tablets.
However, there is a small chance that some 4G mobile signals transmitted at 800 MHz will cause interference to Freeview, which is TV received via an aerial.
Because 4G at 800 MHz signals sit next to the frequencies used by Freeview, they can overload the receivers in TVs and set-top boxes causing interference.
Signs of interference are loss of sound, pictures going blocky, freezing or the TV screen going blank or showing a ‘No Signal’ message.
Free help is available via a company, called at800, that has been set up under government direction to support households with Freeview interference issues.
The company also offers extra support for the elderly and those on disability benefits.
Ben Roome, CEO of at800, said: “We want to ensure that people know it’s our role to fix Freeview interference caused by 4G at 800 MHz, and that there’s no charge for our service.
“If you rely on Freeview for TV, we can send you a filter to fit yourself, free of charge, which fits into the aerial lead connecting to TVs and set-top boxes to block mobile signals.
"Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed.”
People who live in communal properties should contact at800 and also advise their landlords.
For more information, call free on 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles) or visit www.at800.tv
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