BBC HD
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| Owner | BBC |
BBC HD is the high-definition television channel launched by the BBC on a trial basis from May 15, 2006, with the first HD originated programme (Planet Earth) shown on May 27.
BBC HD will initially be available to viewers of the Astra 2D satellite (SkyHD EPG No. 145), and Telewest cable service subscribers with the suitable reception equipment. The channel will also be broadcast as a digital terrestrial (DVB-T) service from London's Crystal Palace transmitter, enabling the channel to be viewed by a selected trial group of 450 homes. As of August 7 2006, The BBC HD test channel has appeared on North West England's Winter Hill transmitter. (Not currently broadcasting).
Both the satellite and terrestrial broadcasts will be free to air, which means that anybody with the required equipment (for example, an adequately powerful personal computer with a DVB-S or DVB-T interface and suitable software) will be able to view the channel during the trial.
The broadcasts will generally be for two to five hours per day, and will include simulcasts with BBC channels and replays of HD programmes such as Planet Earth, Bleak House and Hotel Babylon. Live coverage of events such as The Proms, Wimbledon and the World Cup have already been shown, with the first live event to be broadcast being the opening game between Germany and Costa Rica which took place on on June 9 2006.
When high-definition programmes are not being shown, the channel broadcasts a looped preview containing clips from BBC HD programmes.
Following the 6-12 month trial, a review will take place. If it is decided that a HD channel should be fully launched, it must be first approved by the BBC Trust.
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