Pinnacle, GatesAir partner on DSO

Abuja-based digital broadcast technology company Pinnacle Communications has signed a deal with US firm GatesAir to continue digital switchover (DSO) across Nigeria.

Pinnacle’s pact with the US firm will enable the expansion of new digital TV services and the DSO initiative, which is expected to reach more than 50 million homes and 170 million residents.

GatesAir produces wireless, over-the-air content delivery solutions for radio and TV broadcasters.

The Nigerian company has had a relationship with the Ohio-based firm since 1998 to launch TV and FM radio systems across Nigeria and recently took a delegation to the GatesAir’s manufacturing facility in the US to see the next-generation product designs and readiness to complete greenfield build-outs.

Confirming the business relationship, chairman and CEO of Pinnacle, Lucky Omoluwa said: “Sometime in 2016, we had 12 weeks to deliver a station. All the transmitters were from here. We didn’t do any site testing. We just plugged them in, and they’re still on.”

According to Gates Air’s MD for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region, Andy McClelland, GatesAir has been on the digital path with Pinnacle for a short time, but will be on it for years to come.

“A state-of-the-art, digital, terrestrial television platform is being rolled out in the heart of Africa that can by the envy of not only Africa but of Europe,” he said.