ITV2 HD and ITV4 HD expected to switch to UK beam, joining ITV3 HD
Two new test channels have appeared on Astra 2F's UK beam.
These two test channels are on Astra 2F frequency : 11053 H DVB-S2/8PSK SR:23000, FEC: 3/4.
It is expected that these two test channels will become ITV2 HD and ITV4 HD.
http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2015/04/itv2-hd-and-itv4-hd-expected-to-switch-to-uk-beam-joining-itv3-hd/
Showing posts with label astra 2f. Show all posts
Showing posts with label astra 2f. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Astra 2A frequencies moved to Astra 2E and 2F - better UK TV reception for many in Spain
Astra 2A frequencies moved to Astra 2E and 2F - better UK TV reception for many in Spain
Today, it appears that frequencies on the old Astra 2A satellite have been moved to the newer Astra 2E and Astra 2G satellites.
For us in Spain, it means that those channels on the harder to receive Astra 2A north beam, should be easier to receive than before.
Today, it appears that frequencies on the old Astra 2A satellite have been moved to the newer Astra 2E and Astra 2G satellites.
For us in Spain, it means that those channels on the harder to receive Astra 2A north beam, should be easier to receive than before.
Monday, December 9, 2013
New BBC HD channels to launch - frequencies and channel number details
On Tuesday 10th December the BBC will be launching 5 new HD channels on Freesat HD and Sky HD.
These channels are:
BBC Three HD
BBC Four HD
BBC News HD
CBBC HD
and
CBeebiesHD
These new BBC HD channels will be added to the Freesat and Sky channel listings soon. Their channel numbers can be found at : http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/12/new-bbc-hd-channels-channel-numbers-sky-hd-digiboxes-freesat-hd-set-top-boxes/
USers with other HD satellite receivers will have to scan the relevant frequencies to add these new BBC HD channels to their channel lists : http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/12/new-bbc-hd-channels-frequency-settings-satellite/
These channels are:
BBC Three HD
BBC Four HD
BBC News HD
CBBC HD
and
CBeebiesHD
These new BBC HD channels will be added to the Freesat and Sky channel listings soon. Their channel numbers can be found at : http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/12/new-bbc-hd-channels-channel-numbers-sky-hd-digiboxes-freesat-hd-set-top-boxes/
USers with other HD satellite receivers will have to scan the relevant frequencies to add these new BBC HD channels to their channel lists : http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/12/new-bbc-hd-channels-frequency-settings-satellite/
Friday, December 6, 2013
New BBC HD channels : frequency settings for satellite
Some new BBC HD channels are, according to rumours, expected to launch on the 10th December 2013, on Sky HD and Freesat HD.
The channels have been testing for a few days, indication that they will soon be launched.
BBC Three HD Frequency: 10847 Vertical 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 1N
BBC Four HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
CBBC HD Frequency: 10847 Vertical 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 1N
CBeebies HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
BBC News HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
Sky HD and Freesat HD channel numbers are still to be confirmed.
Sky HD digiboxes and Freesat HD set top boxes will automatically update to include these new channels.
Users of other satellite receivers will need to perform a channel scan, usually available via the installation menu (check your user manual for details).
More frequency information and settings for BBC TV on satellite at : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/bbc_satellite_tv_costa_blanca_spain.php
The channels have been testing for a few days, indication that they will soon be launched.
BBC Three HD Frequency: 10847 Vertical 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 1N
BBC Four HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
CBBC HD Frequency: 10847 Vertical 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 1N
CBeebies HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
BBC News HD Frequency: 11024 Horizontal 23000 2/3 DVB-S2 8PSK Satellite: Astra 2F
Sky HD and Freesat HD channel numbers are still to be confirmed.
Sky HD digiboxes and Freesat HD set top boxes will automatically update to include these new channels.
Users of other satellite receivers will need to perform a channel scan, usually available via the installation menu (check your user manual for details).
More frequency information and settings for BBC TV on satellite at : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/bbc_satellite_tv_costa_blanca_spain.php
Saturday, October 5, 2013
A list of the channels and frequencies affected by the recent "satellite shuffle" between Eutelsat 28A and Astra.
A list of the channels and frequencies affected by the recent "satellite shuffle" between Eutelsat 28A and Astra.
Below is a list of the channels and frequencies affected by the recent "satellite shuffle" between Eutelsat 28A and Astra.
Note that for some people in some areas of Spain, channels on the Astra 2F UK beam may be unavailable, as your satellite dish may be too small to receive these frequencies.
As a general rule of thumb, if you can receive Channel Five, then you should be able to receive those other channels on Astra 2Fs UK beam.
If you are struggling to receive those channels on the Astra 2F UK beam, then it may be possible to search for the channels on their "Final" frequencies, as some of the channels are actually operating on their final frequencies.
On a Sky box, you simply go to the "Add Channels" menu option, and then add the channels to your Sky boxes "Other Channels" list, accessed via the Services Menu.
Hopefully by the 10th October, all channels will be on their final frequencies, and the Sky Guide and the Freesat Guide channel lists are all correctly "mapped" to the new frequencies.
Below is a list of the channels and frequencies affected by the recent "satellite shuffle" between Eutelsat 28A and Astra.
Note that for some people in some areas of Spain, channels on the Astra 2F UK beam may be unavailable, as your satellite dish may be too small to receive these frequencies.
As a general rule of thumb, if you can receive Channel Five, then you should be able to receive those other channels on Astra 2Fs UK beam.
If you are struggling to receive those channels on the Astra 2F UK beam, then it may be possible to search for the channels on their "Final" frequencies, as some of the channels are actually operating on their final frequencies.
On a Sky box, you simply go to the "Add Channels" menu option, and then add the channels to your Sky boxes "Other Channels" list, accessed via the Services Menu.
Hopefully by the 10th October, all channels will be on their final frequencies, and the Sky Guide and the Freesat Guide channel lists are all correctly "mapped" to the new frequencies.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
More incorrect rumours and untruths about the future of satellite TV in Europe - mainly from some IPTV / Internet TV sellers.
Time again to clarify some of more of the incorrect rumours and untruths about the future of satellite TV in Europe and about the so called "Big Switch Off" of UK TV in Spain.
Again, as mentioned before in my blogs ( http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/08/loss-of-uk-tv-in-spain-more-misinformation-by-iptv-retailers/ ) , these "rumours" are coming from some (not all I hasten to add!) sellers of IPTV / Internet TV systems.
One such incorrect rumour that has been doing the rounds, and even spread on a Expat Radio Stations here in Spain, is that:
No.
This is incorrect.
a) BBC, ITV, Ch4 and Ch5 TV channels etc will not disappear from Sky - or Freesat. These UKTV channels will still be on those Digital Satellite systems. Why would these channels be removed from the most popular Digital TV services ?
b) "None of these channels will physically reach Europe mainland via Satellite."
No.
This is incorrect.
They will reach Europe mainland via Satellite.
The beams may be more focused on the UK, but there will be satellite signal overspill into other areas, just like there has been signal overspill into Europe for the last 20 plus years
In fact, in some areas of Spain you can and should still be able to receive these UK TV channels (BBC1HD, ITV1HD, C4HD, Channel Five) on a 1m satellite dish from the first new satellite, Astra 2F, that has been operating since December 2012.
Also, the official SES Astra predicted signal footprint map (seen here http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2e_satellite_reception_footprint_map_uk_tv_spain.php ) for the new UK TV satellites says that its beams can be received in most of France on a 60cm dish.
Last time I checked France was in mainland Europe.
So in fact these channels will physically reach Europe mainland via Satellite, contrary to what these IPTV / Internet TV sellers claim.
Some IPTV / Internet TV sellers are confusing people by misrepresenting the aforementioned official SES Astra signal footprint map.
http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/Resources/ASTRA_2EFG_UK_ku_band_spotbeam.jpg
The map shows SES Astra's prediction of their new satellites UK beam for users with a 45cm satellite dish and 60cm satellite dish. As you can see the Astra 2E satellites UK beam should be available to more than half of France if you are using a 60cm satellite dish.
However, some IPTV / Internet TV sellers are using this as a basis for their misrepresentations, by saying anyone outside that "60cm satellite dish" contour will not be able to receive ANY signals at all.
This is incorrect.
Just because the map does not show data outside that 60cm contour, does not mean that n signals will be available in those areas.
In fact, this is the same map showing the same data for the first new satellites, Astra 2F.
And like I said before, some areas of Spain can receive this signal on a 1m satellite dish - in areas where these IPTV / Internet TV sellers say it is impossible.
Yes, some areas will be affected more than other areas. Some may find that they can still use smaller 1m and 1.25m and 1.4m satellite dishes in Spain for reception of their UK TV .
Yes, some areas, like the Costa del Sol, may have to increase the size of their satellite dishes, and use 1.8m or 2.4m satellite dishes, just like the Costa Blanca has had to use for the last 10plus years.
Until the new Astra 2E satellite has been launched, expected around the 30th September 2013 ( http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2e_satellite_reception_testing_news_updates.php ) , tested (which will take place at another location in the skies), positioned at 28 east along with the other UK TG satellites, and is transmitting signals from that location, no-one will know for sure what reception will be like in Spain, and Europe, or what sized satellite dishes you will need to receive these signals in Spain and Europe.
Again, as mentioned before in my blogs ( http://www.satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/08/loss-of-uk-tv-in-spain-more-misinformation-by-iptv-retailers/ ) , these "rumours" are coming from some (not all I hasten to add!) sellers of IPTV / Internet TV systems.
One such incorrect rumour that has been doing the rounds, and even spread on a Expat Radio Stations here in Spain, is that:
"All BBC, ITV, Ch4 and Ch5 TV channels etc. will disappear from the SKY platform at end of October beginning November. None of these channels will physically reach Europe mainland via Satellite."
No.
This is incorrect.
a) BBC, ITV, Ch4 and Ch5 TV channels etc will not disappear from Sky - or Freesat. These UKTV channels will still be on those Digital Satellite systems. Why would these channels be removed from the most popular Digital TV services ?
b) "None of these channels will physically reach Europe mainland via Satellite."
No.
This is incorrect.
They will reach Europe mainland via Satellite.
The beams may be more focused on the UK, but there will be satellite signal overspill into other areas, just like there has been signal overspill into Europe for the last 20 plus years
In fact, in some areas of Spain you can and should still be able to receive these UK TV channels (BBC1HD, ITV1HD, C4HD, Channel Five) on a 1m satellite dish from the first new satellite, Astra 2F, that has been operating since December 2012.
Also, the official SES Astra predicted signal footprint map (seen here http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2e_satellite_reception_footprint_map_uk_tv_spain.php ) for the new UK TV satellites says that its beams can be received in most of France on a 60cm dish.
Last time I checked France was in mainland Europe.
So in fact these channels will physically reach Europe mainland via Satellite, contrary to what these IPTV / Internet TV sellers claim.
Some IPTV / Internet TV sellers are confusing people by misrepresenting the aforementioned official SES Astra signal footprint map.
http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/Resources/ASTRA_2EFG_UK_ku_band_spotbeam.jpg
The map shows SES Astra's prediction of their new satellites UK beam for users with a 45cm satellite dish and 60cm satellite dish. As you can see the Astra 2E satellites UK beam should be available to more than half of France if you are using a 60cm satellite dish.
However, some IPTV / Internet TV sellers are using this as a basis for their misrepresentations, by saying anyone outside that "60cm satellite dish" contour will not be able to receive ANY signals at all.
This is incorrect.
Just because the map does not show data outside that 60cm contour, does not mean that n signals will be available in those areas.
In fact, this is the same map showing the same data for the first new satellites, Astra 2F.
And like I said before, some areas of Spain can receive this signal on a 1m satellite dish - in areas where these IPTV / Internet TV sellers say it is impossible.
Yes, some areas will be affected more than other areas. Some may find that they can still use smaller 1m and 1.25m and 1.4m satellite dishes in Spain for reception of their UK TV .
Yes, some areas, like the Costa del Sol, may have to increase the size of their satellite dishes, and use 1.8m or 2.4m satellite dishes, just like the Costa Blanca has had to use for the last 10plus years.
Until the new Astra 2E satellite has been launched, expected around the 30th September 2013 ( http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2e_satellite_reception_testing_news_updates.php ) , tested (which will take place at another location in the skies), positioned at 28 east along with the other UK TG satellites, and is transmitting signals from that location, no-one will know for sure what reception will be like in Spain, and Europe, or what sized satellite dishes you will need to receive these signals in Spain and Europe.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Astra 2F launch - September 28, 2012
In preparation for the launch of the new UK TV satellite Astra 2E next week, here is the launch of the last UK TV satellite, Astra 2F.
Astra 2F was launched from Kourou in French Guiana on September 28, 2012.
Commercial operations at 28.2°E began on November 21, 2012.
The first UK TV channels started to transmit from Astra 2F on the 4th December 2012.
Astra 2F News and Updates for reception in Spain : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2f_satellite_reception_launch_specifications_spain.php
http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2f_satellite_reception_testing_news_updates.php
Astra 2F was launched from Kourou in French Guiana on September 28, 2012.
Commercial operations at 28.2°E began on November 21, 2012.
The first UK TV channels started to transmit from Astra 2F on the 4th December 2012.
Astra 2F News and Updates for reception in Spain : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2f_satellite_reception_launch_specifications_spain.php
http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_2f_satellite_reception_testing_news_updates.php
Monday, July 1, 2013
Latest News about the 'Big TV Switch Off' in Spain 2013 - Panic or Keep Calm?
Many people living on the Costas in Spain are currently worrying a little about the coming changes satellite TV reception, which may, or may not, affect Freesat TV, UK TV and Sky TV reception in Spain later this year.
This is all down to some of the current UK TV satellites being replaced with new satellites.
The first new satellites, Astra 2F, is already in operation. In some areas of Spain, there have been no changes in reception to channels that are on this new satellite. However, in other areas of Spain, particularly the Costa del Sol, reception of channels on Astra 2F, as been affected, especially the loss of Channel Five when it switched satellites.
The second new satellites, Astra 2F, is schedule for launch on the 20th July 2013, and expected to be in operation sometime in September 2013.
For all the latest news about the new UK TV Astra satellites, and more information about "the big switch off" of UK TV in Spain, please see : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_satellites_2012_2013_reception_spain.php
This is all down to some of the current UK TV satellites being replaced with new satellites.
The first new satellites, Astra 2F, is already in operation. In some areas of Spain, there have been no changes in reception to channels that are on this new satellite. However, in other areas of Spain, particularly the Costa del Sol, reception of channels on Astra 2F, as been affected, especially the loss of Channel Five when it switched satellites.
The second new satellites, Astra 2F, is schedule for launch on the 20th July 2013, and expected to be in operation sometime in September 2013.
For all the latest news about the new UK TV Astra satellites, and more information about "the big switch off" of UK TV in Spain, please see : http://www.satandpcguy.com/Site/astra_satellites_2012_2013_reception_spain.php
Saturday, January 26, 2013
More information on Sky TV channels moving satellites and loss of channels in some "fringe reception" areas.
Here are more details on the channels affcted by this weeks satellite move.
Our previous post ( http://satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/01/some-sky-tv-channels-move-to-their-new-european-beam-on-astra-2f-loss-of-some-channels-in-some-areas-like-canary-islands/ ) mentioned some of the channels and frequencies that had moved satellites.
It appears that all of the affected frequencies and channels used to be on the Astra 2A satellite.
They are now on a different satellite - this could be either Astra 2F, the new UK TV satellite recently launched, or (unlikely) Astra 1N, the "temporary" UK TV satellite, which is also carrying the majority of the BBC and ITV channels.
Becasue these channels are now on a different satellite, this has meant that their reception in some areas in Spain has changed.
Channels that used to be on the Astra 2A North beam used to be hard to receive, especially mid afternoon, even on 2.4m satellite dishes, when the beam was at its weakest. Since these channels have moved to another beam, on another satellite their reception in Spain should have improved. Improved to an extent that they should be available in most areas on a 1m satellite dish.
However, Sky TV users in the extreme edges of reception, like the Canary Isands, Tenerife, will have lost these channels, as the bnew beam these channels have moved to is not available in that area. There is not a lot people in these areas can do. Their only hope of getting these channels back are if they eventually move and stay on a more "generous beam"
Sky Channels and Frequencies Affected
Sky TV Frequency 12070 H 27500 FEC 2/3 Transponder 19 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Sports Active
Sky TV Frequency 12090 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 20 Moved from Astra 2a north
National Geographic Channel UK HD, Comedy Central UK HD, Nickelodeon UK HD, Eden HD
Sky TV Frequency 12110 H 27500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 21 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Sports F1 HD, Sky 1 UK +1, Sky Sports 2 Ireland, Sky Sports 1 UK, Sky Sports 3, PBS America, Fox UK, Cartoonito UK, TCM 2, Sky Living HD Ireland, Comedy Central UK
Sky TV Frequency 12148 H 27500 FEC 2/3 Transponder 23 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Arts 2, Sky Atlantic Ireland HD, Sky Sports News UK, Sky Sports News Ireland, Sky Sports 1 Ireland, British Eurosport , Sky Sports 4, Fox UK +1, Comedy Central Extra UK
Sky TV Frequency 12168 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 24 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Movies Modern Greats HD, Sky Movies Drama & Romance HD, Sky Movies Sci-Fi & Horror HD, Sky Movies Comedy HD
Sky TV Frequency 12188 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 25 Moved from Astra 2a south
Dave UK HD, Watch HD,, Animal Planet Europe HD, MTV UK HD
Sky TV Frequency 12207 V 29500 Transponder 26 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports 2 UK, Sky News UK, Sky News Ireland, Sky News active, Sky 1 Ireland, Sky 2 UK, Pick TV, Pick TV+1, Community Channels
Sky TV Frequency 12226 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 27 Moved from Astra 2a north
Good Food Channel HD, Cartoon Network UK HD, Disney Cinemagic UK HD, Disney Channel UK HD
Sky TV Frequency 12266 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 29 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports News HD, ESPN America UK HD Five HD
Sky TV Frequency 12324 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 32 Moved from Astra 2a north
Discovery Channel Europe HD, ESPN UK HD, Syfy UK HD, Sky Movies Box Office HD
Sky TV Frequency 12363 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 34 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports 3 HD, Sky Sports F1 HD
Sky TV Frequency 12480 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 40 Moved from Astra 2a North
Channel 4 Ireland, E4 Ireland, More 4 Ireland, Smash Hits, Kerang, Kiss, The Box, 4Music
Our previous post ( http://satandpcguy.com/blog/2013/01/some-sky-tv-channels-move-to-their-new-european-beam-on-astra-2f-loss-of-some-channels-in-some-areas-like-canary-islands/ ) mentioned some of the channels and frequencies that had moved satellites.
It appears that all of the affected frequencies and channels used to be on the Astra 2A satellite.
They are now on a different satellite - this could be either Astra 2F, the new UK TV satellite recently launched, or (unlikely) Astra 1N, the "temporary" UK TV satellite, which is also carrying the majority of the BBC and ITV channels.
Becasue these channels are now on a different satellite, this has meant that their reception in some areas in Spain has changed.
Channels that used to be on the Astra 2A North beam used to be hard to receive, especially mid afternoon, even on 2.4m satellite dishes, when the beam was at its weakest. Since these channels have moved to another beam, on another satellite their reception in Spain should have improved. Improved to an extent that they should be available in most areas on a 1m satellite dish.
However, Sky TV users in the extreme edges of reception, like the Canary Isands, Tenerife, will have lost these channels, as the bnew beam these channels have moved to is not available in that area. There is not a lot people in these areas can do. Their only hope of getting these channels back are if they eventually move and stay on a more "generous beam"
Sky Channels and Frequencies Affected
Sky TV Frequency 12070 H 27500 FEC 2/3 Transponder 19 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Sports Active
Sky TV Frequency 12090 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 20 Moved from Astra 2a north
National Geographic Channel UK HD, Comedy Central UK HD, Nickelodeon UK HD, Eden HD
Sky TV Frequency 12110 H 27500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 21 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Sports F1 HD, Sky 1 UK +1, Sky Sports 2 Ireland, Sky Sports 1 UK, Sky Sports 3, PBS America, Fox UK, Cartoonito UK, TCM 2, Sky Living HD Ireland, Comedy Central UK
Sky TV Frequency 12148 H 27500 FEC 2/3 Transponder 23 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Arts 2, Sky Atlantic Ireland HD, Sky Sports News UK, Sky Sports News Ireland, Sky Sports 1 Ireland, British Eurosport , Sky Sports 4, Fox UK +1, Comedy Central Extra UK
Sky TV Frequency 12168 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 24 Moved from Astra 2a north
Sky Movies Modern Greats HD, Sky Movies Drama & Romance HD, Sky Movies Sci-Fi & Horror HD, Sky Movies Comedy HD
Sky TV Frequency 12188 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 25 Moved from Astra 2a south
Dave UK HD, Watch HD,, Animal Planet Europe HD, MTV UK HD
Sky TV Frequency 12207 V 29500 Transponder 26 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports 2 UK, Sky News UK, Sky News Ireland, Sky News active, Sky 1 Ireland, Sky 2 UK, Pick TV, Pick TV+1, Community Channels
Sky TV Frequency 12226 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 27 Moved from Astra 2a north
Good Food Channel HD, Cartoon Network UK HD, Disney Cinemagic UK HD, Disney Channel UK HD
Sky TV Frequency 12266 H 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 29 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports News HD, ESPN America UK HD Five HD
Sky TV Frequency 12324 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 32 Moved from Astra 2a north
Discovery Channel Europe HD, ESPN UK HD, Syfy UK HD, Sky Movies Box Office HD
Sky TV Frequency 12363 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 34 Moved from Astra 2a south
Sky Sports 3 HD, Sky Sports F1 HD
Sky TV Frequency 12480 V 29500 FEC 3/4 Transponder 40 Moved from Astra 2a North
Channel 4 Ireland, E4 Ireland, More 4 Ireland, Smash Hits, Kerang, Kiss, The Box, 4Music
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Some SKY TV channels move to their new European beam on Astra 2F - loss of some channels in some areas, like Canary Islands
New UK TV Satellite News:
It appears that some of the Sky PAY channels are in the process of moving from their old satellite to their new satellite.
It has been reported today some Sky PAY channels may have moved from their old satellite (Astra 2a and 2B) to their new satellite, Astra 2F.
Reports suggest that some channels have moved to the new "European beam" on 2F.
We know something is happening as people in the "extreme fringe reception areas" are reporting a loss of channels today, in areas like the Canary Islands.
Channels that are affected include:
F1 HD
Channel 5HD
Dave HD
Watch HD
Gold Comedy Central HD
Pick TV
Sky News SD
Discovery HD
Sky Sports 3 HD
Sky Sports News HD
Animal Planet HD
Nat Geo HD
Eden HD
So, what does this mean for Sky TV reception on the mainland of Spain
As the channels are moving from their old beams, which even 2.4m dishes may have struggled to receive 24/7, to a new "European beam" on Asta 2F, this may mean that some of the channels that were lost mid afternoon, may now be available 24/7...and maybe even available on 1m dishes here in the Costa Blanca / Valencia area.
UPDATE: This satellite move by Sky channels can be confirmed. In my service area, some of the channels affected were not available 24/7 even on the "big 2.4m satellite dishes". Today, some of them are fine and stable on my 80cm satellite dish. Thus confirming their move from Astra 2A North beam, to Astra 2F European Beam
It appears that some of the Sky PAY channels are in the process of moving from their old satellite to their new satellite.
It has been reported today some Sky PAY channels may have moved from their old satellite (Astra 2a and 2B) to their new satellite, Astra 2F.
Reports suggest that some channels have moved to the new "European beam" on 2F.
We know something is happening as people in the "extreme fringe reception areas" are reporting a loss of channels today, in areas like the Canary Islands.
Channels that are affected include:
F1 HD
Channel 5HD
Dave HD
Watch HD
Gold Comedy Central HD
Pick TV
Sky News SD
Discovery HD
Sky Sports 3 HD
Sky Sports News HD
Animal Planet HD
Nat Geo HD
Eden HD
So, what does this mean for Sky TV reception on the mainland of Spain
As the channels are moving from their old beams, which even 2.4m dishes may have struggled to receive 24/7, to a new "European beam" on Asta 2F, this may mean that some of the channels that were lost mid afternoon, may now be available 24/7...and maybe even available on 1m dishes here in the Costa Blanca / Valencia area.
UPDATE: This satellite move by Sky channels can be confirmed. In my service area, some of the channels affected were not available 24/7 even on the "big 2.4m satellite dishes". Today, some of them are fine and stable on my 80cm satellite dish. Thus confirming their move from Astra 2A North beam, to Astra 2F European Beam
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Loss of UK TV channels in Spain - some questions and answers
With all the recent gossip, rumours, and expat bar chat,
about the possible loss of UK TV in Spain, and the threat of the UK satellite
TV channels “going off the air in Spain”, I hope this quick question and answer
post can help with some explanations about what is happening.
Why are we losing
reception of out UK TV channels?
Thursday, December 13, 2012
BBC Channels to move from 1N to 2E in "summer 2013"
According to the BBC, BBC services will move from Astra 1N satellite to Astra 2E in the second half of 2013.
"SES expects Astra 2E to launch in Q2 2013, so we currently expect to transition BBC services to it during summer 2013." - say the BBC.
So no BBC channel or reception changes until then - so much for all the rumours about loss of BBC on the 16th and 18th December!!
However, it remains to be seen what Astra 2Es reception in Spain will be like, and this may not be 100% known until operational
The full text
source: bbc.co.uk/blogs/aboutthebbc/posts/Changes-to-BBC-Satellite-transponders-in-2013
One would also assume that the other ITV C4 channels on 1N would move to 2E at the same time then...
And perhaps Astra 2F will have the same reception as Astra 2E...thei reception maps from Astra are very similar - Astra 2E Recetpion Maps Astra 2F Reception maps
And that the changes rumoured to be happening on the 16th and 18th December is actually the transfer of some Sky channels from another satellite (astra 2B) to Astra 2F.
"SES expects Astra 2E to launch in Q2 2013, so we currently expect to transition BBC services to it during summer 2013." - say the BBC.
So no BBC channel or reception changes until then - so much for all the rumours about loss of BBC on the 16th and 18th December!!
However, it remains to be seen what Astra 2Es reception in Spain will be like, and this may not be 100% known until operational
The full text
I’m conscious that there is currently some speculation about the timing of forthcoming moves of BBC services between satellites and the reason for these changes. So I thought you would appreciate it if I set the record straight. The quick answer is that, as a result of SES’s fleet replacement programme, BBC services will move in the second half of 2013.
Regular readers will recall that in February 2012, SES retired Astra 2D and BBC services moved to a new temporary home on Astra 1N. Astra 1N is due to take up its permanent position in 2013 (19°East), so the BBC’s services will move to their new permanent home on Astra 2E (28.2°East) when that becomes operational. SES expects Astra 2E to launch in Q2 2013, so we currently expect to transition BBC services to it during summer 2013.
Some of you have also noticed that we commissioned a new transponder (which we call DSat8) in the autumn. It moved from its temporary home on Astra 1N to its permanent position on Astra 2F at the end of November 2012. DSat8 is still in a testing phase but in the coming months it will be used to broadcast BBC One Scotland HD and BBC One Wales HD as we complete the programme of providing all Nations programming in glorious HD. We’ll be publishing the details of DSat8 on our satellite reception advice page when the services launch.
I hope that clarifies the timings of moves and also that the moves relate to the SES fleet replacement programme, rather than any BBC strategy to change its footprint. That said, the new transponders do have a slightly different footprint, so I’ll explain a bit about that, and why the changes are no cause for concern for the BBC in our requirement to ensure that the BBC’s domestic services are readily accessible to people living in the UK.
What impact will all this have for the viewer?
In all likelihood the move of BBC services from 1N to their new permanent homes will have no impact on UK households. Astra 2E and 2F have the same, tighter but slightly more powerful UK spot beams which means that UK households should get a slightly stronger signal. So if you happened to be on the edge of coverage, you will hopefully get more reliable reception.
The overspill of the BBC’s services will be reduced so viewers outside the UK will find it even harder to receive them. I know that this causes unhappiness to some of you living outside the UK. However, it is entirely appropriate because the BBC domestic services are for people living in the UK only.
For viewers outside the UK, BBC Worldwide offers a number of channels which are available in various territories. These include BBC Entertainment, BBC Knowledge, BBC Lifestyle, CBeebies along with BBC World News throughout Europe and the rest of the world.
I hope the detail above helps you to understand a bit more about the changes coming in the second half of 2013 and the reason for them. Finally, thank you to SES for the lovely pictures of Astra 2F.
source: bbc.co.uk/blogs/aboutthebbc/posts/Changes-to-BBC-Satellite-transponders-in-2013
One would also assume that the other ITV C4 channels on 1N would move to 2E at the same time then...
And perhaps Astra 2F will have the same reception as Astra 2E...thei reception maps from Astra are very similar - Astra 2E Recetpion Maps Astra 2F Reception maps
And that the changes rumoured to be happening on the 16th and 18th December is actually the transfer of some Sky channels from another satellite (astra 2B) to Astra 2F.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Astra 2F: UK TV satellite update - loss of channels in Spain?
Astra 2F Update 07/12/2012 :
According to to the phone calls and email from worried people, Spain will lose all BBC and ITVs on the 16th December...but no-one can provide any evidence of this....or where this date of the 16th December has come from.
My view: it is probably nothing to do with BBC and ITVs.
a) It could be the date where some of the Sky channels move from their satellite (Astra 2B) onto the new Astra 2F satellite. Reception will vary as these channels may go onto the UK beam, or European beam...if Sky really want to keep expats paying and the revenue coming in, they will be on the European beam
b) It could be the date that Sky close changes to their system, so there is no disruption to TV over Xmas.
c). SES, who own and operate the satellites, specifically said that on the 4th only 5 frequencies would move from Astra 1N to the new Astra 2F, and that would complete this stage of migration. So maybe the remaining frequencies on Astra 1N that carry BBC and ITV will not move to 2F, but to the next new satellite, 2E, after it is launched Q1 2013...
d) No mention from anywhere by SES about the 16th...
No-one outside Astra and the broadcasters will know until it happens.
According to to the phone calls and email from worried people, Spain will lose all BBC and ITVs on the 16th December...but no-one can provide any evidence of this....or where this date of the 16th December has come from.
My view: it is probably nothing to do with BBC and ITVs.
a) It could be the date where some of the Sky channels move from their satellite (Astra 2B) onto the new Astra 2F satellite. Reception will vary as these channels may go onto the UK beam, or European beam...if Sky really want to keep expats paying and the revenue coming in, they will be on the European beam
b) It could be the date that Sky close changes to their system, so there is no disruption to TV over Xmas.
c). SES, who own and operate the satellites, specifically said that on the 4th only 5 frequencies would move from Astra 1N to the new Astra 2F, and that would complete this stage of migration. So maybe the remaining frequencies on Astra 1N that carry BBC and ITV will not move to 2F, but to the next new satellite, 2E, after it is launched Q1 2013...
d) No mention from anywhere by SES about the 16th...
No-one outside Astra and the broadcasters will know until it happens.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
December 2012 Update : Channel Movement From Astra 1N to Astra 2F
December 2012 Update : Channel Movement From Astra 1N to Astra 2F
On Tuesday 4th December 2012, a number of channels and frequencies moved from their temporary satellite home Astra 1N, to their new home on Astra 2F.
The channels and frequencies affected are :
10.964 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (CH5/5USA/5*/Channel 5+1),
10.994 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Granada HD/ITV 1 Central South West SD/ITV 1 Anglia West SD/ITV 1 Meridian North SD/ITV 1 Yorkshire East SD/ITV 1+1 Yorkshire SD),
11.052 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Central South SD/ITV 1 Central East SD/ITV 1+1 Wales SD/ITV 1+1 Westcountry SD/ITV 1+1 Tyne Tees SD)
11.126 V SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (Channel 4 HD/4Seven SD)
There have been many reception reports for Astra 2F in Spain.
The initial indication are that there are areas of Spain that are now experiencing "no satellite signal" messages for these channels are the southern areas of Spain, like AndalucÃa, Malaga, Marbella and the Costa Del Sol.
Previously these areas benefitted from "bonus" reception due to a "side lobe" on Astra 2D, meaning they could receive most of the main UK TV channels on a "medium" sized satellite dish - such as a 1.25m satellite dish.
However, with the change of these channels from Astra 1N to Astra 2F, these dishes are now simply too small to receive Channel Five and Channel 4HD.
A larger satellite dish will be required to be able to receive these channels again. What sized satellite dish to be able to receive these channels is currently debateable, as there are numerous conflicting reports for these areas.
However, it may be best to wait until the main bulk of the UK TV channels, like BBC and ITV move to their new satellite, whenever this may be. Only then can you be sure what sized satellite dish you will need to be able to receive these channels. There is no point in buying a 1.4m satellite dish today, if it is unknown and not guaranteed to receive the BBC channels when they move to their new satellite!
And at the moment, no-one knows what that will be.
On Tuesday 4th December 2012, a number of channels and frequencies moved from their temporary satellite home Astra 1N, to their new home on Astra 2F.
The channels and frequencies affected are :
10.964 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (CH5/5USA/5*/Channel 5+1),
10.994 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Granada HD/ITV 1 Central South West SD/ITV 1 Anglia West SD/ITV 1 Meridian North SD/ITV 1 Yorkshire East SD/ITV 1+1 Yorkshire SD),
11.052 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Central South SD/ITV 1 Central East SD/ITV 1+1 Wales SD/ITV 1+1 Westcountry SD/ITV 1+1 Tyne Tees SD)
11.126 V SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (Channel 4 HD/4Seven SD)
There have been many reception reports for Astra 2F in Spain.
The initial indication are that there are areas of Spain that are now experiencing "no satellite signal" messages for these channels are the southern areas of Spain, like AndalucÃa, Malaga, Marbella and the Costa Del Sol.
Previously these areas benefitted from "bonus" reception due to a "side lobe" on Astra 2D, meaning they could receive most of the main UK TV channels on a "medium" sized satellite dish - such as a 1.25m satellite dish.
However, with the change of these channels from Astra 1N to Astra 2F, these dishes are now simply too small to receive Channel Five and Channel 4HD.
A larger satellite dish will be required to be able to receive these channels again. What sized satellite dish to be able to receive these channels is currently debateable, as there are numerous conflicting reports for these areas.
However, it may be best to wait until the main bulk of the UK TV channels, like BBC and ITV move to their new satellite, whenever this may be. Only then can you be sure what sized satellite dish you will need to be able to receive these channels. There is no point in buying a 1.4m satellite dish today, if it is unknown and not guaranteed to receive the BBC channels when they move to their new satellite!
And at the moment, no-one knows what that will be.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Astra 2F UK Satellite changes last night - potentially some loss of UK TV channels in some areas of Spain
Astra 2F UK Satellite changes last night - potentially some loss of UK TV channels in some areas of Spain
A few (not all!) channels and frequencies moved from their old satellite to the new Astra 2F satellite last night.
The channels and frequencies affected are :
10.964 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (CH5/5USA/5*/Channel 5+1),
10.994 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Granada HD/ITV 1 Central South West SD/ITV 1 Anglia West SD/ITV 1 Meridian North SD/ITV 1 Yorkshire East SD/ITV 1+1 Yorkshire SD),
11.052 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Central South SD/ITV 1 Central East SD/ITV 1+1 Wales SD/ITV 1+1 Westcountry SD/ITV 1+1 Tyne Tees SD)
11.126 V SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (Channel 4 HD/4Seven SD)
People in some areas may notice loss of these channels on smaller 80cm or 1m dishes (especially if they are not aligned properly!)
But this does not mean the other channels (BBC ITV C4s) will not be moving - it is simply a question of when!
A few (not all!) channels and frequencies moved from their old satellite to the new Astra 2F satellite last night.
The channels and frequencies affected are :
10.964 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (CH5/5USA/5*/Channel 5+1),
10.994 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Granada HD/ITV 1 Central South West SD/ITV 1 Anglia West SD/ITV 1 Meridian North SD/ITV 1 Yorkshire East SD/ITV 1+1 Yorkshire SD),
11.052 H SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (ITV 1 Central South SD/ITV 1 Central East SD/ITV 1+1 Wales SD/ITV 1+1 Westcountry SD/ITV 1+1 Tyne Tees SD)
11.126 V SR 22.000 FEC 5/6 (Channel 4 HD/4Seven SD)
People in some areas may notice loss of these channels on smaller 80cm or 1m dishes (especially if they are not aligned properly!)
But this does not mean the other channels (BBC ITV C4s) will not be moving - it is simply a question of when!
Friday, November 30, 2012
Astra 2F. UK TV channels movement this coming week?
 |
| The Astra 2F satellite |
"Thank you for your interest in ASTRA 2F. Services are currently being transferred to ASTRA 2F. BBC (Trp 2.061) has been migrated to Astra 2F whereas Channel 5 (Tp 2.057), ITV (2.059 & 2.063) and Channel 4 (Tp 2.068) will move to Astra 2F next Tuesday. This will then mark the completion of the transfer".
No mention of any of the other BBC or ITV or C4 frequencies / transponders....
What does this mean?
The first paragraph DOES NOT say BBC ITV C4 will all be moved to 2F by Tuesday.
It says one frequency has, and a further 4 frequencies will move on Tuesday.
I say "No mention of any of the other BBC or ITV or C4 frequencies / transponders".
So not all frequencies are moving.
For information:
The BBC transponder mentioned - (Trp 2.061) - is the 11023 carrying the two HD channels.
There is no mention of the other 4 bbc transponders (45,46,47,48) that carry the other bbc channels.
The ITV transponders mentioned - (59 and 63) - carry some ITV1, itv1+1 and iTV1hd regional variations.
There is no mention of the other 5 ITV transponders, (44,49,53,54,56) that carry the other ITV1 regions, and other ITV channels.
The C4 transponder mentioned - (68) - carries 4seven and C4HD.
There is no mention of the other 2 C4 transponder (41 42) that carries the other c4 channels.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
SES Astra say Astra 2F is now in position and ready for operations
SES Astra say Astra 2F is now in position and ready for operations
According to a press reelease today, the ASTRA 2F satellite has successfully completed its in-orbit testing and is now fully operational and in commercial service at the orbital neighborhood of 28.2/28.5 degrees East.
See the full press release here
See Astra 2F reception reports for Spain on our reception report maps here
See Astra 2F predicted signal reception maps here
|
| The Astra 2F satellite |
According to a press reelease today, the ASTRA 2F satellite has successfully completed its in-orbit testing and is now fully operational and in commercial service at the orbital neighborhood of 28.2/28.5 degrees East.
See the full press release here
See Astra 2F reception reports for Spain on our reception report maps here
See Astra 2F predicted signal reception maps here
Monday, September 17, 2012
Launch of new UK TV Astra 2F satellite delayed "by a few days"
The new Astra 2F was scheduled to be launched on Friday. However, in order to perform additional checks on the Ariane 5 ECA launch system, Arianespace has decided to postpone the launch VA 209. A new launch date will be announced shortly.
Further information on the new UK TV Astra 2F satellite, and footprint reception maps available here
Further information on the new UK TV Astra 2F satellite, and footprint reception maps available here
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