BBC HD
| Ownership | |
|---|---|
| Owner | BBC |
BBC HD is the high-definition television channel to be launched by the BBC on a trial basis from May 15, 2006, although the first HD originated programme will be shown on May 27.
BBC HD will initially be available to subscribers of the Sky HD satellite service, and Telewest and NTL 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 a few hundred homes.
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 three 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 Wimbledon and the World Cup will be shown, with the first live event to be broadcast being the opening game between Germany and Costa Rica on June 9.
When high-definition programmes are not being shown, the channel will simulcast an upscaled version of BBC One, including popular standard definition programmes such as EastEnders.
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.
