Freesat

Interestingly today Freesat has been given the greenlight by the BBC with ITV (with that 17.9% stake from Sky remember) publically backing the idea - though reading between the lines there is no absolute commitment.


If it did go ahead though I hope they don't make the same mistake as Freeview and instead accept that pay-TV companies might want to offer content via the platform at a later date - such as Virgin next time their contract expires!


And in addition, while viewers with Freesat may not be interested in a Sky subscription or subscribing to a specific channel, I think the option of being able to view the occassionnal pay-per-view event is something they should be given.

The problem with doing this is the boxes will need to be able to decrypt VideoGuard encryption, which will increase the price of the boxes dramatically as NDS charge a fortune for usage of the system (one of the reasons why it is so secure, it's generally only used by NewsCorp companies, as they own NDS). I doubt Sky/NDS will release CAMs either.

Of course one of the key differences between Freeview and Freesat is the latter will need "professional" installation (note the quotes).

Freeview is really just a collection of like minded companies. They don't manufacturer the equipment, install aerial upgrades or regulation the multiplexes.

Presumably 'Freesat' won't supply any installation services or customer support services themselves, just recommend you approach a qualified installer.

*However* On/ITV Digital existed before Freeview so the basic EPG software and standards were already developed. I'm a bit confused what'll happen with the EPG on Freesat - will/can/must they copy Sky's software and what will happen with channel numbering?

Well seeing as a thread has finally been created, I may as well ask my question. What is the main difference between Freeview and Freesat except the satellite dish?

Dozens of shopping channels I think!

A non-proprietary EPG, and a non-subscription PVR tied to it.

The Sky EPG is proprietary - and not open to other hardware manufacturers (though one company has reverse engineered it and is now producing a USB2 interface for early Pace and Amstrad boxes that can decode it), and Sky+ EPG-based recording requires a £10/month subscription if you are not a premium channel Sky subscriber...