NINTENDO Wii AND BBC iPLAYER.

NINTENDO Wii AND BBC iPLAYER.

NINTENDO Wii AND BBC iPLAYER to our surprise can pick up the BBC iPlayer without any need to download software into your Wii. We have tried it to see just how it works and we were quite impressed. This may or may not be one of the reasons to read the T.V. licence directives differently this year.
To get onto the internet for those unfamiliar with how to do it. Click on Wii on the front page > click Wii settings >go to page 2 of the system settings >click on internet >click connection settings >click on connection 1 to make a new or first time connection >choose wireless connection >choose search for an access point >it will search and ask you to choose the access point you need to connect to > o.k. this >choose the access point, which is usually Wii-Lan >it will tell you your point is secure and request from you your password if you have set one for your chosen encryption which can be WEP, WPA or whatever, your SSID is automatically found by your Wii console if you have followed this tutorial.
If you have done everything correctly the console will connect and offer you a Wii update automatically. You can buy Wii points, for example £20 will get you 3,000 points and you can download one of the games for as low as 500 points - the Wii internal memory is limited to half a dozen games so pick wisely.
As expected the Wii is a brilliant bit of multimedia entertainment which can be used without age barriers, in fact my grandchildren suggest that because we have a Wii then I am able to walk on water.
Surfing the net using the Wii is slow and deliberate as you have to continually use the slow keypad, but for catching up on missed programmes it's as good as it gets. We understand it may be able to pick up T.V. channels outside U.K., but for us it will do nicely for the iPlayer menu's.
Is it news to you ? then you read it here first!

METRONIC HD 441827 SATELLITE FREESAT RECEIVER FOR SALE.

METRONIC HD 441827 SATELLITE FREESAT RECEIVER FOR SALE.



Metronic HD 441827 Satellite Freesat Receiver.


HD satellite receiver with superb Standard Definition (SD) and High Definition (HD) picture quality,
Official freesatHD receiver,
Receive over 130 free-to-air digital channels and HD broadcasts from the Astra 28.2E satellite,
HD upscaling for standard definition, improves picture quality through HDMI or component connections,
Simply type in your postcode to pre-load your regions local channels,
Multi-media function: supports USB 2.0 hard disk or USB 2.0 memory sticks,
Play video files, audio files (MP3) or view photo files (JPEG),
RJ45 connection for upgrading software and future features,
HDMI and component (YPbPr) outputs,
Parental lock facility.

This set top box is in very limited supply and as far as we know there is no stock anywhere although we will try and confirm this with the makers in the new year.

We will also be asking if the component outs are fully enabled or not?

Is it news to you? Then you read it here first?

FOXSAT HDR BOXES FOR SALE AND XMAS DELIVERY FROM ARGOS.

FOXSAT HDR BOXES FOR SALE AND XMAS DELIVERY FROM ARGOS.


FOXSAT HDR BOXES ARE NOW AVAILABLE FROM OUR WEBSITES WITH SPECIAL OFFERS TO ALL OUR READERS AND OUR MANY VISITORS.

This is the first time there has been so much stock for delivery in the UK so if you see them in stock hurry before there are none left as there may be a long wait for more UK stock!

http://www.foxsathdr.co.uk/

Any of our Customers spending £100 will get £10 off and those spending £50 will get £5 off their order. All they need to do is enter the code XMASDISCOUNT at the checkout. This offer ends on the 21st December so you will have to rush to take full advantage.

Free delivery over £50 has been extended until the 21st December! All our customers needs to do is enter the code AFD10 for this discount to be applied. All our Customers can still order small items until 1pm on 22nd December for guaranteed delivery before Christmas.

YOU CAN USE THE FREESAT/ARGOS BANNER ON THE RIGHT JUST FILLOW THE DISCOUNT OFFERS ABOVE AND ENTER "FREESAT" IN THE ARGOS SEACH BOX?

You check out our review on the FOXSAT HDR below!

http://www.foxsathdr.co.uk/HUMAX_FOXSAT_HDR_FREESATPLUS_RECEIVER_REVIEW.htm

Is it news to you? Then you read it here first!

HUMAX FOXSAT PLUS REMOTE CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS.

HUMAX FOXSAT PLUS REMOTE CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS.

HUMAX FOXSAT PLUS REMOTE CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS for those who are unsure about their controls.
Like all useable instructions we do not know why these should come originally in a pdf folder which confuses many users.
The Humax FoxsatHDR is very easy to use once you have recorded a couple of times with it, and although not user friendly for multi-sat users it works 100% for freesat users.
To answer Robert;
the Humax FoxsatHDR has multi-sat facilities but when you revert to multi-sat use it deletes all your requested recording functions you may have set in freesat mode. Like the Humax Foxsat freesat HD set top box the Humax Foxsat HDR both boxes distinctly show freesat and multi-sat as two different functions within the same receivers. We would say the multi-sat features in both boxes are work in motion which may be improved with future updates.
Clicking on the above images will expand them for a closer look.

FREESAT HUMAX FOXSAT HDR - I WANT ONE?

FREESAT HUMAX FOXSAT HDR - I WANT ONE?

FREESAT HUMAX FOXSAT HDR - I WANT ONE? and where and when can we get one is what we are being inundated with.

Humax Foxsat HDR is like some of the other freesat equipment, ie; very, very slow to get to the consumer.
We can advise buyers that any of the freesat equipment is worth having as once bought and set up there is no monthly subscription fees.
This year has shown a great drive by manufacturers of popular equipment to make the market for themselves BEFORE the item is actually on the shelves, for example ; Ninetendo DS, Wii, etc... we hope the freesat equipment can be left out of this listing.
The promise of equipment being plentiful in the stores BEFORE Christmas has still to be seen and the way the official freesat dealers are selling the freesat items can only be described as; grossly underestimated by experienced store retail buyers.
The good thing about the wait for freesat equipment means the home user will get a good piece of electrical equipment which should last for a few years which is what we all want.
For those still undecided about what bit of equipment to buy, we suggest you the buyer looks at the equipment in store and decides which is best for them. To buy an HD freesat receiver if you still have the old type non HD T.V. would be a waste of money unless you intend buying very soon an HD T.V. so a basic SD freesat box will give you the same free channels at a fraction of the cost.
Freesat SD boxes are; Bush BFsat, Goodmans GFsat, Grundig Gufsat, Humax DO NOT make SD freesat set top boxes. The only freesat HDR or high definition recorder comes from Humax and it's full title is;
Humax Foxsat HDR which is simply the Humax Foxsat HD combined with a recorder, so you are able to watch ALL freesat channels and record them too. A new type HDR is expected in the new year from a company called Metronic.

JAMES BOND WANNABE.

11|12|08 - ofcom

JAMES BOND WANNABE.

JAMES BOND WANNABE gets fined again!

Spy bug fine

Ofcom has successfully prosecuted a Leicestershire businessman who made and sold illegal ‘bugging’ devices.

Umesh Bharakhada, 43, was fined £4,200 and ordered to pay £6,000 in legal costs when he appeared before Leicester Magistrates Court yesterday.

The tiny bugging devices were designed to be hidden in everyday items.

Aircraft interference

But they’re banned because they interfere with frequencies used by planes to talk to air traffic control.

Small bugs have been known to cause interference to aircraft flying as high as 22,000 ft.

The listening equipment was initially found for sale on two websites.

Earlier offences

Ofcom investigators were then able to trace the bugs back to Bharakada's home at Syston, Leicestershire, from where he runs his business Leicester Surveillance Ltd.

It’s the second time Bharakada has been caught making and selling illegal listening equipment.

In 2003 he was fined £4,000 and ordered to pay £4,000 costs for similar offences.

full story...

ITV FOUR PLUS ONE ON THE FREESAT PLATFORM AT LAST.

ITV FOUR PLUS ONE ON THE FREESAT PLATFORM AT LAST.

ITV FOUR PLUS ONE ON THE FREESAT PLATFORM AT LAST after weeks of guessing.
Rumours abounded for weeks so it is good to see the elusive channel is now on the freesat platform.
snippet.

HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW.

HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW.


HUMAX FOXSAT HDR FREESATPLUS RECEIVER REVIEW explanation for new buyers.

We had decided to NOT do a review of this HDR as we had already been first to review the Humax Foxsat HD freesat receiver when it was first introduced to the general public.
We decided to comment on a few bits and bobs about the HDR because new buyers will find the box different from their usual set top box.
The Humax Foxsat HDR has 350gb hard drive already installed, which is good for many hours of films or Series recording.
The hard drive is already partitioned to allow the user the chance to use the USB facility on the front (under the drop down flap) or on the rear of the Foxsat HDR for things like photos which can be added to a seperate partition as your favourite films or series.
The Humax Foxsat HDR is not as attractive as the Foxsat HD receiver and it is much larger. The remote although slated on some forums we feel they are a bit harsh considering the Humax Foxsat HDR remote is also a Universal Remote which can be programmed to use: Audio, T.V., DVD, PVR in any order you like, so anything that removes an extra remote is a bonus.
We advise most definitely for all new users to study the manual BEFORE USEAGE.
For this little guide we decided to use one coax cable to see how the Humax Foxsat HDR performed, and we were not let down. The rear of the Humax Foxsat HDR has three LNB slots and those with only one cable are advised to use LNB1 in and with the other two LNB points, ie; LNB 1 out, and LNB 2 in it is advised to use a simple loop coax. The simple loop coax can be purchased from your favourite electrical store or you can make one up yourself if you have the fittings, of a small length of coax cable and two F-connectors. Once you either buy or make this loop up attach it to the rear of the HUmax Foxsat HDR onto LNB 1 out, and LNB 2 in (see the diagram in the manual).
Click on the graphic above to enlarge and see the update screen on the HUmax Foxsat HDR.
You can now do the set up; your new Humax Foxsat HDR has your single cable from the satellite dish going into LNB 1 in and the other two LNB slots as described and in the manual.
The first thing the HUmax Foxsat HDR will ask you is if you wish to do an update, BEFORE saying yes; DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK - while the Humax Foxsat HDR is still switched on remove the LNB1 in coax and put it into LNB2 in, go back to your remote and agree to the update. The Humax Foxsat HDR will go black for a few seconds and then start the update, once the update is complete put back the LNB cables to their original positions and allow the Humax Foxsat to go through the procedure again whereas it will then tell you there are no updates available.
You can then carry on with your Humax Foxsat HDR set up.
When you get to your postal code we advise those users who live outside the ITV HD catchment areas to enter a postal code such as SW1A 1AA to be sure of receiving ITV HD.
It should be mentioned at this time that if you use a single cable with the Humax Foxsat HDR it restricts your full useage of the Humax Foxsat HDR but it will allow those in restricted accommodation to still use it, students for example.
As reported earlier we tested the first public Humax Foxsat HD and comparing the Foxsat HD receiver with the Humax Foxsat HDR we suggest the Humax Foxsat HDR is better with regards, sound, graphics, upscaling of old and dated programming, user friendly with very few niggles. Our niggles; Postal Code entry is a pain for the less dexterous in ALL freesat boxes.
We like the idea of being able to set a recording and not have the problem of getting five minutes of rubbish before the recording starts - the Humax Foxsat HDR comes into it's own with this facilty, excellent for following a series. The accuracy of this of course is sent out by the programme provider.
The clever Humax Foxsat HDR will also do what is called scheduled tracking, which is if the programme changes to a different time or day the Humax Foxsat HDR will detect them and the programme will still be recorded - very clever.
You know that film which is split by the news? No problem the HUmax Foxsat HDR will sort this out also if you have requested a recording - superb.
For the satellite enthusiast he/she can enjoy the benefit of the built in DisEqC facility and the major player the cam facility - Humax have given us a lot for our pennies.
Conclusion;
The Humax Foxsat HDR is a great bit of kit worth every penny, and as satellite enthusiasts who own many different satellite receivers we are impressed. We have been playing this game since Sky had only one channel so we think we know a little bit about receivers, this one is special.
Our suggestion, if your into freesat' go get one, this sat receiver is hot!

EXCELLENT Broadband guide

05|12|08 - ofcom

Broadband guide

Broadband speeds video

A new Ofcom consumer guide means you can always have the facts about home broadband speeds at your fingertips.

The guide – which you can download and print off – tells you what to expect from an ISP when you take out a new home broadband service.

The guide also provides troubleshooting tips if you’re not getting the speeds you expected as well as information about fair usage policies.

Click here to view and download the guide [pdf].

The broadband speeds guide is the latest in a series of Ofcom consumer advice fact sheets.

Consumer guides

Other recently published guides help consumers deal with the problems of silent calls and slamming.

There is also a fact sheet on what to do if you have a have a complaint about your communications provider.

Silent calls – How to avoid nuisance calls.

Slamming – Has your telephone service been switched without permission?

Complaints- How to make a complaint to your service provider.

Finally, if you want to change ISP then we’ve also made it easier for you to find the best deals.

Earlier this year Ofcom awarded its first price accreditation logos to price comparison websites Broadband Choices and SimplifyDigital.

Consumers using these sites can be sure that their price comparison calculators are accessible, accurate, transparent, comprehensive and up to date.

FREESAT ADDS THE SPARKLE TO THE UK’S HIGH-DEFINITION CHRISTMAS.

FREESAT ADDS THE SPARKLE TO THE UK’S HIGH-DEFINITION CHRISTMAS.

FREESAT TV OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE.

This year will see the UK’s first ever HD Christmas from Freesat with a feast of FREE high-definition (HD) programme highlights. A whole range of Christmas films, dramas, comedies and family entertainment will be brought to life with vivid HD pictures and cinema-style sound.

Freesat, the UK’s subscription-free satellite TV service offers the BBC HD Channel and exclusive access to ITV HD subscription-free, alongside over 140 other TV and radio services. For a one-off set-up cost as low as £100 your family TV set can be transformed from ‘HD-ready’ to ‘HD-now’ in good time for Christmas with Freesat.

Satellite dish installation, if required, is available from just another £80. Full information on Freesat digital boxes or integrated TV sets is available at http://www.freesatnews.co.uk

Main. Customers who buy Freesat before 17 December should be in good time to have it installed for Christmas.

BBC HD CHANNEL - FREESAT CHANNEL 108 The channel will be showcasing a huge range of family films over the Christmas period, meaning viewers won’t have to rely on the family Blu-ray player for a dose of HD entertainment during the holidays.

· The Chronicles Of Narnia – The Lion,
The Witch And The Wardrobe
· Pirates Of The Caribbean – Dead Man's Chest
· Brothers Grimm · The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit
· Starter For Ten · Toy Story 2 · Wallace and Gromit:

A Matter Of Loaf And Death The BBC HD Channel will keep the nation laughing their way through the last helping of Christmas pudding with the return of some comedy favourites, including the welcome return of all-new ‘The Royle Family’, and Gavin and Stacey all in HD;

· After You've Gone Christmas special
· Gavin and Stacey Christmas special
· Lead Balloon
· The Royle Family Christmas special.

Christmas is never complete without some dramas and family favourites, and the BBC has pulled out all the stops with a range of HD drama including the return of the hugely popular ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’;

Other festive HD highlights from the BBC will include the ‘Shrek The Halls’ Christmas special from everyone’s favourite green film star, the Christmas special of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, and Michael Palin returning to bring the world to our screens in ’80 Days Revisited’.

In addition Casanova, Doctor Who Prom, The 39 Steps and The Queen’s speech will all be available in HD on BBC HD Channel over Christmas.

ITV HD – VIA THE RED BUTTON ON FREESAT CHANNEL 103 ITV HD will be showing a veritable feast of Christmas movies and entertainment, as well as top-drawer sport over the Christmas period and the finale of all-singing, all-dancing drama Britannia High.

Movie lovers will get to experience a range of blockbuster films in full HD, including;
· Star Wars:
The Phantom Menace · Star Wars:
Attack of the Clones ·
True Lies · Ali G · Bird on a Wire

· Meaning of Life The drama won’t be limited to blockbuster films though, with ITV HD showing UEFA Champions League matches in HD, making every blade of grass, bead of sweat and even the odd tear, even more life like.

PROJECT KANGAROO DEALT A BODY BLOW 3rd Dec. 2008.

PROJECT KANGAROO DEALT A BODY BLOW.

PROJECT KANGAROO DEALT A BODY BLOW by the ;
The Competition Commission (CC) has provisionally concluded that the proposed video on demand (VOD) joint venture between the BBC through BBC Worldwide Limited (BBCW), ITV plc (ITV) and Channel Four Television Corporation (C4)—UKVOD, also known as ‘Project Kangaroo’—will restrict competition in the supply of VOD services in the UK. The full report will be published shortly.
pdf report...

HUMAX FOXSATHDR - TWO DAY WINDOW OPEN.

HUMAX FOXSATHDR - TWO DAY WINDOW OPEN.

Humax FoxsatHDR is available by entering code; 532/1832 in the Argos search box on the right at this time for a two day delivery schedule.
How long this will last? time will tell!
snippet timed at; 10-15 am 3rd of Dec.2008.

BSkyB appeals again.

BSkyB appeals again.


LONDON - Satellite pay-TV company BSkyB is to appeal against the Competition Appeal Tribunal's ruling that it must cut its 17.9% stake in ITV to below 10%.

The company has asked for permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal the CAT's judgment that it must cut its ITV stake.

Earlier this month, the Competition Commission recommended that BSkyB reduce its controversial 17.9% stake in ITV to less than 10%.

The satellite broadcaster had been hoping that the Commission would give it up to a year to reduce its holding. Sky feared that dumping a large chunk of equity on the market would trigger a sharp fall in the share price of its holding in ITV, which has already plummeted in recent months.

Sky bought its stake for £940m in November 2006 in a bid to prevent a takeover of ITV by Virgin Media.

A Virgin Media spokesman said: "We urge the Competition Appeal Tribunal and the Court of Appeal to recognise Sky's application for what it is: a blatant attempt to delay an already drawn-out process still further and refuse Sky permission to appeal."

source: mediaweek