Satellite updates HD, Top Gear, Freesat

Top Gear - Free to Air on BBC HD from November 15

Top Gear will be high definition when it returns to the BBC on November 15 - this can be viewed on any HD satellite receiver.

Many of the major programs on BBC2 are now starting to be shown on BBC HD, which has a much stronger signal than that of BBC2.


Thursday November 12, 2009
New UK satellite service coming in February 2010

A Top Up TV-style service for satellite is set for a 'soft' launch in February 2010

Trade title New Media Markets reports that Real Digital will offer access to 200 standard and high definition free to air channels including those available on Freesat plus a selection of as-yet-unannounced pay TV channels which could bring the total to 250 at launch.

The service will initially be made available to owners of certain Fortec Star receivers including its Passion Plus and Innovation models in February requiring a software update which includes the addition of a Real Digital EPG. Subscribers will be asked to purchase a viewing card for a one-off fee of £20 but it is not known what form of encryption will be used.

Fortec is also manufacturing bespoke standard definition and Real Digital+ PVR receivers for the service which will be made available from April 2010. Two more undisclosed manufacturers are also producing boxes.

August 21

Channel 4 HD are also now Free of Sky HD exclusivety contract and are in negotiations for freeview & freesat distribution of channel 4 HD.

Paul

www.televisiontechnology.eu