High Definition

High definition pictures have more detail and precision and are of particular benefit to those with larger screens. High definition is not a feature that can be added to the an existing transmission so it has to be broadcast as a special new channel with its own schedule of programmes. This is why you will hear references to "The BBC HD Channel", for example. (Though often these channels will broadcast the HD version of a programme at the same time as it goes out on the main channel - a necessity when the programme is live!)

HD services are digital and at present only available on satellite or cable, though there are plans to introduce HD services to 'Freeview' after Digital Switchover.

Many TV sets are now being sold as HD Ready and bear the logo shown on the right. This means just what it says: the sets are ready to display a high definition picture if they are given one to display. This may be from a Sky HD, Freesat HD or cable HD box or from a High Definition disc player e.g. Blu-Ray.

Late in 2009 HD channels broadcast over the Freeview system started to become available in some parts of the UK and all areas of the UK will be ablse to get some HD channels from Freeview by the end of 2012. However, the way the channels are broadcast is incompatible with all Freeview receivers that have been sold up until the end of 2009, even those with 'Digital Ticks' and 'HD' logos. A special HD Freeview box will be required, and this plugged in to the TV so that the HD channels can be viewed. This will also receive the old style standard definition channels too.

Within the next few years, all large screen TV sets sold, will incorporate Freeview HD capability as standard.

The best way of connecting any High Definition box to an HD Ready TV is using an HDMI cable. HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. This will ensure that you get the very best quality picture possible.

Links to other related sites:
	HD Ready
W	High Definition TV
W	HDMI
W	Blu-ray

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