SES launches UHD demo channel in UK and Ireland

Satellite operator SES’s ultra HD demo channel is now available in the UK and Ireland.

The channel, broadcast on Astra 2E at 28.2° East will simulcast the UHD demonstration channel that is currently at SES’s primary European orbital position of 19.2° East. The ultra HD content is broadcast using the DVB UHD-1 Phase 1 signalling specifications and is encoded in the HEVC Main 10 standard.

The channel features a mix of urban sports, exotic animals and nature and cityscape scenes, along with footage of SES’s headquarters in Betzdorf. It can be received via TVs featuring an integrated satellite tuners and an HEVC decoder.

“We are delighted to have set up this demonstration channel at the prime orbital position for the UK market,” said Mike Chandler, managing director of Astra (GB) Ltd, SES’s subsidiary in the UK.

“We are making use of the capacity to enable UK and Irish retailers, installers and enthusiasts to understand the technology that makes UHD possible, and what it will mean for their viewing experience. We encourage our trade partners to show our ultra HD demo channel at their points of sale for demonstration purposes.”