The ten things you should know

1. When is it happening?

Starting in 2008 and ending in 2012, TV services in the UK will go completely digital, TV region by TV region.

2. Why is it happening?

To maximize the benefits of Digital TV in the UK, we have to switch off the old “Analogue” TV signal to allow the “Digital” signal to be boosted.

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3. Who decided to do this?

The Government is responsible for the policy of a digital switchover and setting the 2008-2012 timetable. They have also established a Help Scheme for those who may need practical assistance with switchover.

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4. What do I have to do?

To continue to TV after a region has switched over, you will need to ensure that every television/television point that you wish to continue to use have been upgraded before the digital switchover happens. Some aerial systems, particularly communal aerial systems, may need to be upgraded to receive the digital signal.

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5. Who can upgrade my infrastructure?

If you represent an organisation responsible for television systems (including aerials), you must plan ahead for switchover. To ensure that there is no loss of services for your customers/tenants, you need to ensure that you have chosen the right installation partner and allowed sufficient time to complete an upgrade programme. This could easily take several years for larger organizations such as councils or housing associations.

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6. What kind of TV do I need?

It is unlikely that you will need to replace an existing TV but to receive digital TV broadcast’s you will need a digital box fed via aerial, satellite dish or cable.

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7. What difference will I see?

Digital TV can improve the quality of the TV picture but this does depend on the quality of your old analogue signal or your new digital signal.

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8. Will I get any new services?

Some digital boxes have special features for people with visual and hearing impairments such as audio description and subtitling.

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9. How many channels will I get?

You’ll receive all your usual TV channels and many more as standard including BBC Three, ITV2, E4, More 4, S4C2, Sky News, Cbeebies, CBBC, CITV, ITV3 & Film 4.

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10. What will it cost me?

Receiving a digital TV signal is simply a right under your TV license. You may choose to change your TV, pay a one off cost for a Freeview box or a subscription for cable or satellite.

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