Arqiva provides satellite distribution of Channel 4 HD to Sky and Freesat
Brian Butterworth published on UK Free TV Press release from Arqiva:
Arqiva has secured a satellite distribution deal for Channel 4 HD. The new arrangement facilitates transmission of Channel 4 HD for the first time on Freesat (from April 2011) while maintaining the channel's presence on the Sky platform. Arqiva provides encoding, teleport services and satellite capacity to enable Channel 4 HD to be uplinked simultaneously to both platforms via one transponder.
The service, which began on the 18th February 2011, takes advantage of Arqiva's technologically advanced DVB-S2 MPEG-4 encoding platform on Eurobird EB1.
This enables Channel 4 to more efficiently deliver the high quality HD signal. Arqiva has also installed the necessary compression equipment at Channel 4's Playout Centre and is providing the necessary Sky adaptation and Freesat EPG insertion.
Barrie Woolston, Commercial Sales Director at Arqiva Broadcast & Media, said: "Arqiva provides Channel 4 with all its multiplexing systems and its terrestrial broadcast transmitter network, and this agreement means we now also provide Channel 4 HD's satellite distribution. We launched our state-of-the-art DVB-S2 MPEG-4 platform on EB1 to meet the growing demands for high definition channel distribution. The exceptional efficiencies and superb UK coverage it offers makes this the ideal platform for a major national broadcaster like Channel 4."
Channel 4 HD was launched on Sky+ HD in 2007, Virgin Media in 2009, and Freeview in 2010. The channel carries the same programming as the Channel 4 SD service, making it the UK's first high definition channel from a terrestrial broadcaster. Alongside American favourites such as 'Ugly Betty' Channel 4 HD will also show original programming in HD such as 'Hollyoaks' and 'Skins'.
Kevin Burrows, CTO – Broadcast and Distribution at Channel 4, added: "We have a long and excellent relationship with Arqiva and we are delighted to entrust this final and important element of our transmission network to their care. Their ongoing support has been invaluable in enabling even more UK viewers to enjoy their favourite Channel 4 programmes in spectacular high definition."
5:03 PM
Sorry I wouldn't have to ask the question if the heading was less confusing - I'm a layman!
Any way my question about Film 4 isn't answered in the heading.
I don't need all this stuff about multiplexes and encoding platforms. All I want to know is if and when I can watch something without having to give money away to those robbing b*****s at Sky.
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12:03 AM
Sorry it's so confusing to you Brian Springthorpe but as a 70 somthing myself I thought it was straight forward so here it is again! Arqiva provides satellite distribution of Channel 4 HD to Sky and Freesat,and "FREESAT". I am looking forward to another FREE HD broadcast.
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Josh: I'm not able to predict the outcome of contract negotiations that may or may not take place in some years time, in particular as there is supposed to be another UK beam on an upcoming Astra 2 launch.
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Alan: There is a diagram on the BBC and ITV Freesat | ukfree.tv - independent free digital TV advice page that might explain things.
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Brian Springthorpe: Film4 HD is exclusive to Virgin Media at the moment.
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3:39 PM
Briantist: Channel 4HD is currently free-to-air on Eurobird 1. The encryption for now as been switched off.
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10:57 PM
Tuned in Channel 4 HD last night on my Sony KDL40W5810 TV and it's a great picture without any Logo DOG. Don't suppose that'll be the case on the official FreeSat launch day!
For anyone who tries it on there Sony TV it's right up near the top of the channel list (high numbers).
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7:26 PM
i scsnned freesat for channel 4 hd on my panasonic no sign of channel 4hd on epg.Waited channel 4hd appeared on epg,Phonedfriend who has lg freesat tv .the same thing happened is there any reason for this? David
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david: It's on 126 now. Do a "first time install" if you are still missing the channel. It only appears on Freesat HD boxes, of course.
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10:24 PM
FILM4 HD might come Q3 of this year because of astra 1n and another sattilte being launched for uk television services 5HD also might also be on freesat this year not freeview I think channel five have more space on astra 1n now for there hd channel also channel four for E4 hd MORE4 hd and FILM4 hd also so I think channel 4 and 5 might have a wee present for all freesat viewers this year well I hope so any way
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