Magazine finds fault with teletext system

Press, 24 February 1986, Page 29

Magazine finds fault with teletext system

PA Hamilton “Consumer” magazine is not very impressed with TVNZ's teletext system. The January-February issue of the magazine has checked the service and found a number of faults with the system. “Consumer” says that once the novelty of teletext wears off people may be left disappointed. All the information provided by the system is available in newspapers and on radio and television, the magazine says. One problem which concerned “Consumer” was the need for good reception.

A clear television picture is no guarantee of a clear teletext reception. If an aerial is shared — such as in a block of flats — “Consumer” says reception of teletext may be impossible.

’’For satisfactory performance a different aerial may be required, costing up to $3OO installed,” the magazine said.

Another irritation discovered by the test was the time it took for the page requested to appear on the screen. The magazine says the average access time is eight seconds, but may be longer or shorter.

”If you do not have the time or inclination to watch the television news or read the newspaper, teletext may be an alternative,” the magazine said.

The magazine said disabled persons, particularly those with partial sight or hearing troubles, might get real benefit from the service.

Another problem the survey found was that teletext cannot be recorded on video.

If a sub-titled programme was recorded on video the sub-titles were not shown when the tape is replayed, the magazine said.