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Freeview
Freeview is a digital service that allows you to watch
extra channels via your TV aerial. You don't need a
dish, and there's no subscription - all you need is a
Freeview set-top box.
What channels are available?
Freeview offers around 30 channels of TV and 20 radio
channels... the channels are subscription-free, there
are no ties or contracts, and no installation costs.
Just buy a set-top box for free access to the Freeview
line up.
What other features should I
look for?
Whilst some of the cheaper Freeview boxes do a perfectly
acceptable job of receiving TV, there are certain
features that may cost a little extra but are well worth
looking out for. The first aspect to check is whether or
not the unit supports the full range of channels. Some
of the older designs won't give you the entire range of
new stations.
A digital output allows you to record straight on to a
digital source such as a DVD-R, for a hassle free and
high quality recording. Twin Scart sockets mean that you
won't find yourself running out of sockets on the TV, as
other components can then be plugged in via the Freeview
box. It's also worth checking that the unit you have in
mind will fit where you'd planned!
Freeview box sizes vary enormously,
and some of them can be mounted horizontally, enabling
them to be fitted into the tightest of spaces. Finally,
as with all components, it's well worth investing in a
decent quality lead between the box and TV. A properly
screened Scart lead will greatly benefit the clarity of
both sound and picture.
Information
on set-top receivers:
There's quite a range of set-top boxes, with
differing features and styling. Here are a few things to
consider when buying a Freeview box:
Connectivity: All
boxes have a single SCART socket as standard, for
connection either to a TV or video. As mentioned above
you may want to consider improving your options with a
second SCART socket that allows connection to both a TV
and video recorder. If connecting to a TV or video that
doesn't have a SCART socket, you need to look for a box
that has a modulated output (that can transmit TV on a
special channel that you can tune your TV or recorder
into).
Features: Starting
with basic boxes that support interactive services and
subtitles, to boxes with electronic programme guides,
built-in games and programme timers, to top-of-the-range
boxes with CD and DVD players, DVD, and hard-disk
recorders. Recorders with hard-disks built in (known as
PVRs) support live pause, and many allow you to record
one digital channel whilst watching another.
Freeview offers digital services, such as programme
listings, digital Teletext and games. Check out BBCi on
channel 105 for an example of the text services
available.
FREESAT
Freesat is a non subscription TV service using a small
black mesh satellite dish. The channels are very similar
to freeview. This system is great for customers who can
not receive a reliable Freeview service and it also has
the BBC & ITV HD channels available if your TV is HD
ready.
We supply and install all of the current Freesat boxes.
We can also install just the dish only if you have the
receiver box or a Freesat TV. We feel our prices our
competitive using top quality cable and equipment, so
give us a call for more details or to arrange an
installation. |