Upcoming changes and upgrade of our broadcast format to MPEG-4
This month Shaw Direct is entering the final phase of our Satellite Digital Network Upgrade (DNU), an initiative we launched in 2017 to upgrade our broadcast format to MPEG-4, the best-in-class format for TV broadcast in Canada.
As you are all aware, for some time now, we have strategically limited the type of equipment that can be installed and activated on a new customer’s account to DSR600/800 model receivers or MPEG-4 receivers and all LNBFs from Quad to XKU.
Shaw Direct currently broadcasts TV channels using two video formats: MPEG-2 and MPEG-4. MPEG-2 channels require more satellite bandwidth, while MPEG-4 channels utilize a newer and more efficient standard that requires compatible hardware (an MPEG-4 capable receiver) to view.
The equipment used to broadcast MPEG-2 video signals is now reaching end-of-life status.
The above-mentioned LNBF installation and receiver activation restrictions were set in motion to facilitate a multi-year transition to remove MPEG-2 video signals and upgrade all channels to MPEG-4, allowing us to offer all available English and French channels in HD by early 2020.
Since launching our Satellite Digital Network Upgrade (DNU) initiative three years ago, we have been working with our customers to ensure they have the right equipment to enjoy all the benefits that come with this upgrade. The transition has been designed to be as gradual as possible to minimize disruption for our existing customers.
† Important Notice! The next critical milestone of our Satellite Digital Network Upgrade which is the removal of 12 channels on January 21, 2019 may bring impacted clients to your stores
On January 21, the 12 channels listed below will be removed from MPEG-2 maps and will be available only on MPEG-4 receivers. As a result, customers who require an XKU LNB and/or MPEG-4 DSR may come to your stores because their service has been interrupted.
Channels that will be broadcast exclusively in MPEG-4 format
• Sportsnet World
• Book TV
• Fashion Television
• Playboy TV
• Red Hot
• Exxxtasy
• Penthouse
• Fairchild
• Rai Italia
• ATN
• Odyssey
• EWTN,
• CKPR Thunder Bay
• CKPG Prince George
Despite our numerous attempts to reach our customers, some of them may still be unaware of the DNU upgrade initiative. Kindly refer these customers directly to Shaw Direct so that we can have the DNU upgrade conversation with them. Shaw Direct has numerous special offers in place to assist impacted customers through this transition and is in the best position to assist these customers with their specific needs.
1-888-554-7827