The pundit warns BBC viewers to prepare now for a major “shutdown” or face losing channels

AN EXPERT has warned some TV fans they may have to buy a brand new set-top box if they want to keep watching the BBC.

It comes as the broadcasting giant prepares to switch all of its channels to HD via satellite.

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The problem is that some older boxes can’t handle HD channels, meaning they won’t be able to watch BBC One or other BBC channels from next year.

Beeb bosses need to turn off the SD or “Standard Definition” versions of every channel to finally make the move to Full HD.

“The big SD shutdown is well underway as it becomes increasingly costly for broadcasters to support numerous variations of the same channel,” PP Foresight expert Paolo Pescatore told The Sun.

“Unfortunately, this will impact some users and it will depend on their current setup.

“Essentially it will likely mean some sort of new TV set-top box or switch to BBC iPlayer over the internet.

“Users should check if they are eligible for help with the HD migration process.

“Some may even have access to the internet, either with a connected TV or a device that can connect to the internet to watch shows.”

How do I know if my set top box is affected?

The changes affect SD-only satellite boxes.

There’s a clever way to check if you’re not sure.

Freesat owners can go to channel 799 and it will automatically tell you if you are free or if you need to update your box.

Anyone with an old Sky set-top box could also be affected.

The best way on Sky is to go to channel 105.

If channel 5 HD shows up as a channel, your box can handle HD.

But if it only says Channel 5 and doesn’t mention HD, that means you have an old SD-only box and need to upgrade.

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