The BBC HD channel is now available on BBC iPlayer. In order to be classed as "true" high definition, we encode in at least 1280x720 resolution, or 720p. You'll know when it's available as the Watch in BBC HD logo will be present on the programme page if a HD version is available. We recommend you watch HD content in Full Screen for the best possible experience.

HD content is available to stream through the website and via the the latest 'Big Screen' version of BBC iPlayer (currently, only the Sony Playstation 3 console is supported) and to download via BBC iPlayer Desktop.

We use h.264 with a bitrate of 3.2Mbps and 192kbps audio, which means that streaming and downloading will put demands on your network connection and computer's graphics processing. We recommend then that you have a:

• A modern computer with a graphics card and processor than can handle the graphics, otherwise playback will be choppy
• An internet connection fast enough to allow 3.2Mbps playback. Check your speed at our diagnostics page.
• An internet connection that will allow downloads or playback of the large file sizes
• Watch content in Full Screen mode

Due to the variations between machines, we can't offer individual specs.

If you do try HD and your computer can't run it, we have boosted our encode rates for all other BBC iPlayer programmes, so you now have the option to access programmes that are not in HD but are still of good quality.

For more information, see the blog of Anthony Rose, the BBC's former Head of Digital Media Technologies.

For information on the latest 'Big Screen' version of BBC iPlayer, please see the New BBC iPlayer for TV blog.

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If you have detailed issues about using BBC iPlayer not covered here, please read our Where can I go to discuss BBC iPlayer? FAQ or you can Contact Us.