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The province of Santiago de Cuba has been without access to high-definition (HD) television signal for more than three months due to a malfunction of the digital transmitter located at the Boniato Port, and so far, no viable technical solution has been found.
According to the official newspaper Sierra Maestra in its printed edition, since January 28, HD channels have been out of service due to technical issues that affected the transmitter equipment.
Gustavo Marín Álvarez, head of the Provincial Radio Division of Cuba, explained that the damage, attributed to technological disruptions caused by the unstable energy situation, resulted in the loss of high-definition signal not only in the main municipality but also in Palma Soriano, San Luis, Mella, Songo-La Maya, and Contramaestre.
"The transmitter equipment that served the main municipality and other nearby municipalities has been damaged. As of this moment, there is no solution," Marín specified.
He added that, despite the electrical protections and the use of generators, the equipment was not designed to withstand the constant fluctuations in the electricity supply.
The executive admitted that the necessary parts, pieces, accessories, and components to repair the equipment are not available, leaving the residents of Santiago without hope of being able to enjoy HD channels.
Meanwhile, the programming of standard television —Cubavisión, Tele Rebelde, the two Educational channels, Multivisión, Clave, and Canal Habana— continues to operate just like the broadcasts of the radio stations.
Marín advised affected users to manually reprogram their decoder boxes and to regularly check the strength and quality of the signal reception, avoiding moving the antennas to prevent disorientation.
Despite the frequent issues with digital transmission, the Cuban regime remains committed to its promise to turn off analog television nationwide by 2026.
In 2024, for instance, the company Radiocuba reported that the instability of the electrical system affecting the country was responsible for several interruptions in the digital television signal.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Lack of HD Channels in Santiago de Cuba and the Energy Crisis
Why doesn't Santiago de Cuba have access to HD television channels?
Santiago de Cuba has been without access to HD channels for over three months due to a malfunction in the digital transmitter located in the Port of Boniato. This malfunction has been caused by technological problems associated with the unstable electrical situation in the country, which has affected the equipment of the transmitter. So far, a viable technical solution has not been found due to the lack of necessary parts and components for the repair.
What is the cause of the electrical instability in Cuba?
The electrical instability in Cuba is due to several factors, including the deterioration of the energy infrastructure and the effects of natural phenomena such as hurricanes. Furthermore, technical issues in thermoelectric power plants and electrical substations, as well as the inability to replace outdated equipment, have exacerbated the situation. This instability has led to blackouts and has impacted services such as television and telecommunications.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the issues of TV transmission and energy?
The Cuban government has attempted to implement "microsystems" to ensure basic services with limited energy. However, these solutions have proven insufficient to stabilize the electricity supply and repair damaged equipment. The lack of spare parts and the complexity of the current infrastructure continue to be significant barriers to an effective short-term solution.
What impact do the lack of HD channels and the energy crisis have on the daily lives of Cubans?
The lack of HD channels and the energy crisis negatively impact the quality of life for Cubans. The absence of high-definition signal limits access to quality content, while prolonged blackouts hinder everyday activities, access to basic services, and communication. This situation generates increasing social discontent and criticism of the Cuban regime.
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