TV fans given final warning to keep BBC channels after major 'shutdown'
HOUSEHOLDS have been urged to check their TV set-top box for a key setting if they have suddenly lost access to BBC channels.
The broadcaster closed all standard definition (SD) channels last week, switching viewers to high definition (HD) broadcasts instead.
SD channels that have disappeared include:
- BBC One SD
- BBC Two SD
- BBC Three SD
- BBC Four SD
- CBBC SD
- CBeebies SD
- BBC News SD
- BBC Scotland SD
- BBC ALBA SD
- BBC Parliament SD
It's part of an effort to clear space on the airwaves.
But it means viewers with older set-top boxes and TVs that aren't compatible with HD channels will no longer be able to watch the BBC's SD stations.
The BBC has been warning for months that viewers will lose access to its channels if they do not upgrade their television box to a newer, HD-compatible set-top.
Will my TV be affected by the HD satellite upgrade?
Viewers who are unsure what type of set-top box or TV they have can use the BBC's checking tool, available live on Channel 799 on Freesat.
On that channel you will see one of two messages:
- “Good news, it doesn't bother you and you can continue to use your box.”
- “Sorry, your satellite set-top box cannot receive high-definition services. You will be affected by the satellite changes.”
If you see the second message, you will need to buy a newer television box to receive HD channels such as the BBC.
Sky viewers should go to channel 105. If it is listed as “Channel 5 HD”, your equipment is HD capable.
But if it simply says “Channel 5” without mentioning HD at the end, you need to upgrade.
Sky customers can get a free upgrade to Sky Q at no extra cost.
To get the free upgrade, all you need to do is use one of Sky's affected models, such as:
Digibox
- 4F01 to 4F08 (Amstrad)
- 4E01 to 4E05 (Grundig)
- 9F01 to 9F08 and 9F0A (tempo)
- 0F01 to 0F05 (Panasonic)
- 4E06 to 4E08 (Thomson)
Heaven+
- 4F2001 to 4F2006 (Amstrad)
- 4F2101 to 4F2118 and 9F2101 to 9F2137 (Amstrad or Pace)
- 9F2001 to 9F2024, PVR2, 9F2201 to 9F2235, 9F2301 to 9F2339 (tempo)
- 4E2101 to 4E2141 (Thomson)
How do I get my BBC channels back?
A special support line has been set up by the HD Satellite Upgrade organization to help people with the transition.
If you or a family member have difficulty with the service, the organization can provide advice.
However, this support line closes on February 16, so make sure you take advantage of it before it disappears.
“For all users of SD-only satellite devices who have not yet upgraded, we can still provide advice and limited support through our utility. However, there is very limited availability and the program will close completely from February 16,” the statement said. That's what experts from HD Satellite Upgrade say.
“If you still need advice or support, we strongly encourage you to take action now while support is available.
“After February 16, there will be no further support for upgrading.”
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