The BBC’s standard definition channels have now completed their migration to a new satellite frequency, ahead of their closure next year.
Sky satellite and Freesat receivers were updated this morning to point to the new frequency (10803H, transponder 47).
Since last week, BBC standard definition (SD) channels have been simulcast on both old (12422H, tp37) and new frequencies.
Now that Sky and Freesat receivers have been updated, the BBC will be able to end broadcasts on 12422H.
MORE INFO: BBC satellite tuning frequencies/parameters
The BBC bundled its SD channels (minus regional services) on to 12422 H during the recent HD upgrade, which saw every BBC channel become available in HD on satellite for the first time.
- With SD channels moved out of the way, this created space to launch new HD services on the BBC’s existing satellite capacity.
- Following the conclusion of the HD upgrade, 10803H was cleared providing room for the BBC to move SD services back to its own satellite capacity. 12422H is normally only used for temporary pop-up services.
SD channels include a single national version of BBC One – BBC One Nightlight. Regional news is not available. Instead, viewers see an on-screen caption with information on the impending closure of BBC SD channels (pictured above). Ahead of the full closure of SD, expected in early 2024, BBC One SD viewers will see further periodic messaging, urging them to upgrade their equipment.
Meanwhile, tests for BBC Two Northern Ireland HD are running on 10773H (SID 6312). In the medium term, this will allow the BBC to move the channel off Sky transponder capacity. BBC One South HD also currently operates on Sky transponder capacity.
Marc Thornham