British television viewers will come a step closer to being able to watch HD channels on DTT when the Digital Television Group (DTG) launches its test and conformance regime for Freeview HD set-top boxes at IBC this week.

Freeview HD Test Suites material will be made available from DTG Testing today (Friday 11 September). The data will allow set-top box makers to check the performance of their Freeview HD and Freeview+ HD products against industry specified brand requirements.

Once completed, devices will be sent to the DTG to be certified and, if successful, given the Freeview HD stamp of approval.

Director general Richard Lindsay-Davies said: “Testing against Freeview HD brand requirements will mark a step change in market compliance. The DTG can now utilise eight years of test suite development as a foundation to ensure that Freeview HD receivers will meet levels of compliance, only achieved previously on vertical or lower volume proprietary standard platforms.”

Freeview HD channels will launch in the Granada region on 2 December. Viewers will need to purchase new set-top boxes in order to watch HD channels.

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