Sky's hi-def service for HDMI/DVI HDCP tvs only!

[Rob]

Taken from http://www.homecinemachoice.com/cgi-...ws.php?id=7231

Sky drops a high definition bombshell

'More news has reached us about Sky’s proposed launch of high definition programming in 2006 – and what we’re hearing will send shockwaves throughout the AV industry.

Some of the information BSkyB revealed during a recent presentation to the Digital Interoperability Forum in Brussels seems pretty positive. For instance, BSkyB apparently announced that its service and HDTV decoder box will support BOTH 720p/50Hz AND 1080i/25Hz high definition formats, rather than just going with 720p as was previously anticipated. The choice of which HD format will be used for which HD programme is apparently going to be left to the platform’s individual broadcasters.

However, it was when discussing how the HD signal would be delivered from the Sky decoder box to a projector/plasma TV/LCD TV that the bombshell emerged, as Sky stated that the vast majority of HDTV programming will only be viewable if carried via HDMI or DVI connections that support the HDCP digital rights protection system. In other words, if your projector or flat panel screen only has component video inputs or an HDMI/DVI jack NOT compatible with the HDCP system, it will not show the majority of Sky’s HD services.

Sky has long been troubled by how to stop people copying its broadcasts illegally, so perhaps we shouldn't be too surprised that it's jumping at the chance to use HDCP. But the ramifications of the decision are huge for us punters, as countless flat panel TVs and projectors that don’t have the necessary digital connectivity are already proudly installed in people’s homes, presenting the buyers with the nightmare scenario of having to upgrade by 2006 a screen they thought would last them for many, many years.

There are also many screens/projectors in shops right now that don’t have the necessary connectivity, so if you’re thinking of buying one for Christmas – or whenever! – all we can do is stress in the strongest terms that you try and choose one with an HDCP-compliant HDMI or DVI jack.'


I wonder if the same decision will be made in order to protect Blu-Ray or HD-DVD discs? :?: