Freesat launch imminent

Freesat will be launched on 6 May, making free high definition television available to 98% of the UK’s population, compared with Freeview which can serve just 73% of the population.

With its ability to cover most of the UK, the Freesat satellite service will be a key element in the success of the digital switchover.

With the launch date imminent, rumours are growing that ITV could launch its high definition service exclusively on Freesat.

While this still isn’t clear, it is known that the service will provide a mix of 80 TV and radio channels, including high definition programming.

No subscription will be required, but viewers will need to buy a Freesat set-top-box (STB) and will need to fix a satellite dish on their house.

HD-enabled STBs will cost around £150 from high street retailers, while boxes without high-definition capabilities will cost around £50.

As HD channels are said to be four times clearer than standard TV broadcasts it could be worth investing in the more expensive HD STB.