Digital TV Guides

Do I need digital TV?

By becca.talbot@consumerchoices.co.uk

Add a comment

Print

Send to a friend

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

Virgin HD deal of the month 2 months FREE then £5.50 / month

FREE Sky+HD box + FREE set-up for £18 a month + £10 for the HD Pack

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.

Add a comment (1)

Print

Send to a friend

Comments