Audio description

Click here to view all products that have audio description

You might have used this on videos or DVDs with an AD marking but it is not available on analogue TV. So it is a new service from the broadcasters that has come in with digital TV. It works like a commentary for people who have difficulty seeing the screen. During the programme a voice describes what is shown and happening on the screen, during gaps in the dialogue or in silent parts.

Ofcom sets and monitors targets for broadcasters. The current 10-year target is for 10% of programming hours to be audio described. Broadcasters are also required to identify programmes with 'AD' in on-screen TV Guides.

Here is a link to listings of TV programmes with audio description: www.tvhelp.org.uk/audes/schedule.php

Finding products with AD

To see test reports on products that have AD capability click here.

We have tested over 80 products with AD across a range of digital TV platforms - terrestrial, satellite and cable. But note, AD is not currently available on Talktalk (formerly Tiscali) digital TV services that are delivered through your telephone line.

BSkyB satellite and the Virgin Media cable company broadcast audio description combined with a programme’s soundtrack. You just have to change the settings on the TV – no special kit is needed. Further information from Sky Accessibility Helpline and Virgin Media customer services.

The RNIB also have lists of products with AD capability. You can also get more information on AD from RNIB and here's a link to listings of TV programmes with audio description: www.tvhelp.org.uk/audes/schedule.php

Other equipment

You can also get AD though the following special equipment

• Nebula PC card – called the DigiTV, it is a computer adapter for watching digital TV programmes with audio description on your PC. DigiTV also works with speech and magnification software. Information on 01689 897090 or at www.nebula-electronics.com
• Portset digital media centre - a box that provides all digital terrestrial TV channels, sound only, with audio description when it’s broadcast, plus spoken text services, record and playback. Information on 01489 893919 or at www.portset.co.uk/pdmc.htm.