You want free high-def? You got free high-def

by Dean Evans at Friday 26th June, 2009 at 9:54 am [0 comments]

According to the BBC Internet Blog, terrestrial high-definition transmissions will begin broadcasting just in time for Christmas. Freeview HD is go.

“The plan is still to launch Freeview HD on December 2nd at the Winter Hill transmitter serving Manchester and Liverpool,” writes Graham Plumb, Head of Distribution Technology in the BBC Operations Group.

“The plan has always been to roll Freeview HD out around the country following switchover and Winter Hill was selected as the first achievable transmitter.”

The BBC says that it’s been working to upgrade stations early so that viewers in the major UK cities won’t have to wait long for free high definition television.

The initial high-def Freeview service will support four channels, including the BBC HD channel. ITV, Channel 4, Five and S4C are expected to bid for the remaining three slots.

Of course, Plumb adds that there are still several big technical challenges for Freeview HD. Not least the production of suitable receiver equipment. The current crop of Freeview boxes won’t receive the HD signals.

“However, there is industry-wide commitment to rolling out Freeview HD as soon as possible,” he says, “and good progress is being made on all fronts.”

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