The digital TV switchover is the process of
turning off the UK's analogue TV signal and
replacing it with a digital signal.
Why is it happening?
The digital TV switchover is Government policy. It will mean that almost everyone will be able to receive digital TV through an aerial (Freeview). Digital TV also uses less broadcast space which means that after switchover, there will be more room for new services such as wireless broadband, local TV and High Definition Television (HDTV). To keep your TV service, you will need to convert your TVs to digital before your area’s switchover date. West North West Homes has very nearly completed all works necessary to blocks with communal TV systems, such as multi storey flats, to ensure that we are ready for the switchover.
Do I need to buy a new TV?
No, you don't need to get a new TV as almost any TV can be converted with a digital box, even black and white ones and televisions without scart sockets. Your television needs to have either a scart or RF input. Unfortunately if your television does not have either of these inputs it cannot be converted to receive digital television.
Will my video/ dvd recorder
still work once I get digital?
After switchover video and analogue dvd recorders will still play back videotapes and dvds as before, but will not be able to record one digital channel while you watch another. If you would like to continue doing this after switchover, the simplest way is to get a digital TV recorder.
How much will it cost to
convert to digital TV?
Switching to digital doesn’t need to be expensive. The price will vary depending on the digital choices you make.
The main call centre number for information is 0845 6 50 50 50.
They also offer a service for deaf callers, the number for this is 0845 23 03 80.
www.digitaluk.co.uk also contains information about switchover and a postcode checker, so you can find out when your area switches to digital.