Do I need a High Definition TV?

 

Digital TV and High-definition TV are different things.

 

High Definition TV uses more lines to give you a better, sharper picture when viewing programmes that have been recorded in HD.

 

You do not need to buy a high definition (HD) TV set to receive digital TV after the switchover, although if you're interested in watching in high definition, you may want to go for an HD TV set.

 

How do I get High Definition TV?

 

To get HD, you will need a High Definition "HD Ready" TV set, and a set-top box. At the moment, Sky offers the widest choice of High Definition programming. Pictured to the right is the Sky+ HD box, available from www.sky.com/skycom.

 

HD is available from Sky Digital, Virgin Media Cable, Freesat and BT Vision.

 

 

High Definition on Freeview?

 

In late 2008, it was announced that four channels of HD will be available on Freeview. Here's what you need to know.

 

Channels: The four channels will include BBC HD, ITV HD, Channel 4 HD and Five HD

 

When? We can't expect Freeview HD until at least the end of 2009, and even then, not in all parts of the UK. Last work we had is that one HD channel will be available on Freeview in the Granada region by December 2009. It's estimated that 50% of the UK may be able to get Freeview HD by July 2010.

 

Receivers: As of October 2009, no Freeview HD receivers exist. Note that existing Freeview set-top boxes and digital TV sets will not be able to handle the new DVB-T2 High Definition format.

 

 

 

More information:

• Hi Definition TV Explained
• Freeview HD

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