Can someone explain Freeview to me please?

[hecate]

I wanted to buy a freeview box, so checked out the site. It says freeview is not available in my area until 2011.

Now does this mean that even if I bought a freeview box, it wouldn't work until 2011, or does it mean that I cannot get Freeview on a normal tv without a box until 2011?

I think that they mean the former.

One option (which we are looking into at the moment as we are moving from the top of a hill to the bottom and losing our Freeview signal) is buying Sky with a one-off payment and no extra channels. You can then get Freeview. This link to Tesco will give you the idea, but my dad bought the same package direct from Sky.

direct.tesco.com/q/R.203-8747.aspx

Patsy

thanks PC.

There are a few tiny areas that can't get proper freeview reception at this time. Some have said that they get it anyway (for example like Patsycline on top of a hill). Could you borrow one briefly because that's the best test.

You would also need a good aerial on the house if it was borderline to pick it up anyway.

we were told we couldnt receive it either..but we borrowed a box and the reception was perfect

If you can't get freeview then there is soon to be "freesat" which is the same idea, but done over a sateillite so theoretically there is more likelihood you will be able to receive it.

You have to have a special box to get either freeview or Freesat.
But after you buy the box the rest is free.

Ooh, I didn't know about Freesat. Looking at their site I think it's the same thing that Sky are doing. I'm so glad I don't have to give my pennies to Rupert Murdoch just because I'm moving down the hill. Thanks, Miggsie.

www.freesat.co.uk/help.php