DTT upgrade

Ofcom and the BBC Trust are to work together to upgrade digital terrestrial television (DTT) to provide high definition (HD) services.

Terrestrial television is presently broadcast on six multiplexes. These are distinct blocks of transmission capacity which carry services. Multiplex B is licensed to and operated by the BBC, whilst Ofcom has wider responsibilities for the regulation of DTT.

Ofcom and the BBC Trust have agreed to clear multiplex B and relocate the existing channels on the multiplex to use the spare capacity on the other multiplexes. Once this is complete, multiplex B will be upgraded to use new technologies and standards.

The two outfits will also work together to ensure that any impact on the digital switchover process is minimised. The work will be completed before the digital switchover in the Granada region in 2009.

Upgrading the DTT platform will bring more choice for consumers. Existing Freeview viewers should continue to receive the range of services that are currently available on their existing equipment.