Digital Switchover

Preparing for Digital TV Switchover in the North West.

July 27 2009 marks the 100 day countdown to the digital switch over, which takes place on 4 November 2009 in the Granada region.

Between 2008 and 2012, TV services in the UK will go completely digital, TV region by TV region and the old analogue signal will be phased out.

Firstly, all TV sets - not just the main one - will have to be connected to a digital box or dish or upgraded if you wish to continue watching TV on them after switchover.

Converting your TV to receive digital does not need to involve buying a new TV set. Virtually all analogue sets - even black and white ones - can be converted using a digital box, which cost around £30.

Those who are thinking about buying a new TV before 2009, should only buy one which carries the 'digital tick' logo, an easily recognisable pink tick which identifies TV equipment designed to work before, during and after switchover.

Existing video cassette recorders will continue to work after switchover. They will play back tapes as before and they will be able to record one digital channel at a time. However, you will only be able to tape the programme you are watching - you won't be able to tape one channel while watching another! If you like to record a lot of programmes, then do look into buying or renting a digital TV recorder such as Freeview playback, Sky + or Virgin Media's V+

It's unlikely that viewers will have to upgrade their TV aerial unless it's particularly old or has been damaged due to adverse weather conditions or interference from birds and other wildlife. If you currently receive a good picture, then you will continue to get good reception after switchover. But those living in shared or warden controlled accommodation with communal aerial systems should contact their landlords to make sure that their aerial and any associated cabling is up to the task.

The Digital Switchover Help Scheme provides assistance for those aged 75 and over; or in receipt of disability living allowance or attendance allowance; or registered blind or partially sighted.

For more information about Digital TV Switchover or the Help Scheme, call the Digital UK helpline on 0845 6 50 50 50 or go to www.digitaluk.co.uk