BSkyB in talks with Voom HD

Voom HD, which is part of Rainbow Media, is in discussions with BSkyB about the launch of two high definition channels in both the UK and Ireland.

The Voom HD signal is provided in a number of formats including MPEG2 at 50Hz, MPEG2 at 60Hz, and MPEG4, to suit different operators. The MPEG2 format, for example is used by cable operators.

The contract with BSkyB is part of Voom’s international expansion strategy. The company is close to 10 different satellite markets in Europe, and is finalising plans in all of them.

Voom’s main European distributor is Zonemedia (formerly Zone Vision Networks), and Orbit in the Middle East already has a signal up for the service.

Voom supplies three potential services to broadcasters: its own standalone channels, programming titles sold on an individual content sales basis, and Voom-branded day-part blocks, which are sold as nested services.