Are HD digital TVs multi-regional?

[admin_exported]

I have a Samsung HD TV model LE40A686 (M1F) bought in UK. Will it work in South Africa?

Old tube TV's were not always compatible across regions and my DVD player is "multi-regional". Hence my question. The power supply 240v should not be a problem. I will appreciate any answers on this.

Thomas, Wokingham

 

[Dave_]

The TVs tuner may not be compatible with whatever broadcast system/standard they use in S.A, but you could always use an external satellite/cable/terrestrial receiver to get around that.

 

[John Duncan]

It will depend on the digital tv system used in any given country. Will investigate.

 

[John Duncan]

Interesting. Television didn't come to South Africa until 1976. Perhaps if they'd seen 'Love Thy Neighbour' reruns it may have brought down the apartheid regime somewhat more quickly.

South Africa has for the time being adopted the European DVB-T standard so your Telly should work fine. I say 'for the time being' as there is some talk of their adopting the Japanese standard, at which point you'd be stuffed. Interesting to note though that satellite appears to be the dominant broadcast medium, so you may find you'll be better off buying a Sat box anyway depending on your content requirements.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks John and Dave,

If I understand, you are both saying that apart from the broadcasting standard, if I go through a sat box/antenna, I should be ok. Is that correct?

 

[John Duncan]

Yes. Most TVs will handle PAL or NTSC anyway, so your only issue would be the internal tuner - and it's SA-compatible, so you're fine.