What is DVB-T2?
High Definition Television, HD or HDTV is a revolutionary technology that
displays sharper, higher resolution pictures with up to five times more detail
than traditional (standard definition) television systems. HDTV content
contains vivid colours and crystal clear surround sound is also included in
some HD programmes.
Sky, Virgin, and Freesat all provide HD services through either satellite or
cable. In April 2008, UK regulator Ofcom announced plans for up to four high-
definition digital TV channels to be delivered via a TV aerial on Freeview.
A new high capacity delivery standard: DVB-T2 has been introduced to deliver
the Freeview HD service. DVB-T2 is an extension of the existing standard
DVB-T that is used to transmit current Freeview broadcasts. A new video
compression standard: MPEG-4 AVC has also been introduced to create
sharper and more detailed high definition pictures.
The Freeview HD service is currently launching on a region by region basis, in
parallel with switchover, across the UK.
On 2 December 2009 the Winter Hill transmitter, serving Manchester and
Liverpool was the first to start transmitting DVB-T2 signals, with transmissions
from the Crystal Palace transmitter serving London launching on the same
day.
BBC HD, ITV1 HD, C4HD (and S4C in Wales) are currently available on the
Freeview HD service. Commercial Public Service Broadcasters will have the
opportunity to apply for a fouth HD slot from 2012.
To receive Freeview HD consumers will need to purchase new integrated
Freeview HD TVs or Freeview HD set-top boxes and recorders to work with
their existing HD Ready TV's. When you're buying a Freeview product, look
out for the Freeview HD logo. This ensures you're buying a Freeview
approved product which means you'll be able to access all the Freeview HD
channels as well as the standard 50 Freeview channels.
By the time of the World Cup in June 2010 HD DVB-T2 services will be
available to 40-50% of the UK population with coverage rising to 60% later
that year and to 98.5% when digital switchover is completed in 2012
