Question
How can I check as to whether I can receive ESPN on my Freeview?
Submitted online by Paul
Our Answer
Good question, and we’ll expand the answer to cover both ESPN and Sky Sports on Freeview.
Checking ESPN on Freeview
The ESPN channel is broadcast on a block of channels known as Multiplex A. Other channels on Multiplex A are ITV3 , QVC and 5USA
If you can get these Freeview channels without a problem, you should be able to get a signal from ESPN. All that remains, is to make sure that your Freeview receiver is capable of using a subscription card
ESPN is a subscription channel, and is encrypted. You need a viewing card and decode to unscramble the ESPN channel. This could take the form of:
1. A Freeview set-top box with a subscription card slot – available from the link below
2. A Freeview TV set that has a CI Slot. This accepts a metal adapter called a CAM, which in turn accepts an ESPN subscription card
To get a Freeview box suitable for ESPN, or to get a CAM for your Freeview TV set, go to the Top Up TV ESPN site, where you’ll get everything you need, including a subscription to ESPN.
Checking Sky Sports on Freeview
Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2 are available on Freeview. They are on a block of channels known as Multiplex B (for those that haven’t completed the Digital Switchover) or COM6 (for those that have completed the Digital Switchover)
Channels on Multiplex B include BBC Four and BBC Radio 1, so if your transmitter hasn’t completed the Digital Switchover, and you can get BBC 4 and BBC Radio 1, you should be able to get the Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2 signal.
You will need a Freeview set-top box that supports a subscription card. To get a suitable Freeview box, go to the Top Up TV Sky Sports site, where you can get a Freeview box plus a Sky Sports viewing card.
Top Up TV T215 Set-top box - For ESPN and Sky Sports