Digital TV Guides

Do I need digital TV?

Do I need digital TV?

By becca.talbot@consumerchoices.co.uk

In 2008 the government turned off the first of the analogue signals. It started with the Scottish Border and is now switching off the signals ITV region by ITV region until 2012, when Meridian, London, Tyne Tees and Ulster will all go digital. Updated on 25/02/2009.

Advertisement: Article continues below
Visit VirginMedia.co.uk
Virgin HD deal
of the month
2 months FREE
then £5.50 / month
Visit VirginMedia.co.uk
Visit Sky.com
FREE Sky+HD box
+ FREE set-up
for £18 a month
+ £10 for the HD Pack
Visit Sky.com

So do you have to switch to digital TV? Here’s a quick guide to why you’ll have to make the switch:

Do I have to switch to digital?

In a word, yes. Unless you plan on ditching your TV, you will have to go digital in some way, shape or form. This doesn’t have to be expansive - Freeview set-top boxes start from around £20 and are very easy to set up.

What happens if I don’t switch to digital?

Your old TV aerial won’t be able to unscramble the new digital signal, so you won’t be able to watch TV. While you probably won’t have to change your aerial, you will have to get a set-top box to connect to your TV and unscramble the signal so you can continue to watch TV.

When will I have to switch to digital?

Each area will be notified around two years before it switches over, and the government and the BBC are putting aside funds to make sure that no one is left out (see useful links). However, if you haven’t switched when the analogue signal is turned off, you’ll lose your TV signal and won’t be able to watch.

Check digital switchover dates in your area.

Share |

We want your views, register and comment on this article

Already Registered?

We will contact you if we can help with your issue, your number will not be given to any third party.

Terms and Conditions Apply


Comments

Aerials DO NOT unscramble signals + There is no such thing as a "Digital aerial".
The Digital system is less tolerant of signal fading and requires an Antenna in a better state of repair and probably a higher gain than the analog system. DigitalUK website, section 3, Your Aerial gives a good account of what is required.
- Nov 18 2009 9:36AM