DirecTV Carries 100 National HD Channels

Since DirecTV has just announced they will be carrying 100 national High Definition (HD) channels it appears that the concept of HDTV is definitely starting to take off in all directions. It is certainly just a matter of time before the other cable and satellite companies offer the same option or something more to keep up with their competition. In 2006 we saw a slow introduction of HD channels by DirecTV and various other cable providers.

However 2007 has brought a channel line up starting to fall into place for DirecTV. The channels that have been secured in place include A&E, National Geographic, Bravo, NFL Network, Cartoon Network, SciFi Channel, CNN, Speed, Food Network, TBS, FX, The History Channel, HGTV, The Weather Channel, MTV, and USA Network.

Many of the remaining DirecTV channels that will be introduced to make up the remaining HD channels aren't known yet. They currently offer nine National HD channels. It is believed about twenty of the channels will be for regional sports. There appears to be several HD contracts in the works with various programmers that have not yet been announced. As these contracts are completed they will be added to the list of HD channels that DirecTV will be offering soon.

DirecTV is also keeping a tight lip on the cost of the 100 National HD channels they are going to offer. Some believe this is so it can be a part of the advertising and marketing for the HD channels. Others believe the price is being withheld until DirecTV can offer all 100 National HD channels. This way they can modify the cost if they are unable to secure that many channels.

Since about half of the 100 National HD channels promised by DirecTV are unaccounted for some are skeptical that DirecTV won't be able to follow through with the rest. Those who enjoy HDTV are really hoping DirecTV will be able to make good on their announcement.

In order for DirecTV to implement their 100 National HD channels they need to incorporate several more MPEG4 satellites. This was to be completed by Sea Launch. However due to a recent incident that resulted in an explosion while installing satellites for another company there may be delays in getting this accomplished for DirecTV.