BUFFALO - Time Warner Cable, the second-largest cable operator in the U.S., today announced that the Smithsonian Channel will join the digital lineup at channel 791 on May 29. This new HD channel celebrates the American experience with content inspired by the assets of the famed Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex. The joint venture between the Smithsonian Institution and Showtime Networks will feature original documentaries, short subject explorations and groundbreaking programs that highlight America's historical, cultural and scientific heritage.

The channel joins a growing lineup of high definition programming in the WNY Division. Presently, Time Warner Cable has 74 HD channels, 48 provided to digital customers free of charge. Smithsonian Channel will provide some content in a variety of formats to Time Warner Cable customers including Road Runner Online, HD On Demand and the channel will be Start Over enabled.

"We're excited about our partnership with the Smithsonian Channel," said Terence Rafferty, Regional Vice President - Operations, Time Warner Cable, WNY Division. "It will be another great addition to our growing HD lineup, the vast majority of which is included free with our digital cable service."