Put simply, transmitting TV signals digitally uses a lot less bandwidth allowing more programmes to be delivered with much better quality, and more information. Digital signals can be received by a standard aerial, satellite dish, or via cable, but require a decoder (receiver) to receive and decode the signals into a TV picture.
Until the UK is entirely switched over, the current signal cannot reach the whole of the UK. Only by completely switching off the analogue signal will the rest of the population gain access to the increased picture quality, extra channels and interactivity that digital television offers.
More Choice:
Digital technology means that it is now possible to receive many more channels than from traditional analogue transmissions. As well as the five main channels there are several free channels available, as well as many pay channels. Additionally there are dozens of digital quality radio stations that can be received.
Better Quality:
Digital pictures are unaffected by interference so ghosting is a thing of the past. Whilst analogue transmissions can look stretched and distorted on a widescreen TV, many digital pictures are broadcast in true widescreen, which makes for a much better picture, especially for films.
Furthermore, digital technology has made High Definition TV a reality. When combined with superior sound quality, TV viewing will never be the same. In fact there are many radio stations that can now be received in digital. ¡¡
More Information:
Digital transmissions are able to carry a lot more information. Finding what to watch is easy thanks to on-screen electronic programme guides.
Interactive TV is now a reality with services improving all the time, such as e-mail, shopping, travel, auctions, games, and so much more. Red-button services are now available on many channels enabling the viewer to choose a different sports game, or camera angle, or be able to bring up information whilst watching a particular programme.
True two-way interactivity is possible on a satellite box when combined with a telephone connection, which is particularly useful for gaming, betting, shopping, and banking.
There are four ways to receive Digital TV:
Through your existing aerial:
Often referred to as Freeview, this is a simple decoder which gets you watching Digital TV right away, with no more charges. Alternatively, Top-Up TV allows you to watch more channels for a subscription.
TV¡¯s that already include the decoder are called IDTV¡¯s, or Integrated Digital TV¡¯s, meaning that you have everything you need in one piece of equipment.
Via a Satellite Dish:
With a mini-dish, sky box, and viewing card, you can receive SKY as a subscription based service which now includes many programmes in High Definition. For a one off payment you can also receive certain channels without a subscription ¨C this is known as Freesat.
Via Cable:
Cable TV is transmitted via networks of fibre-optic cables, and are able to carry around 150 channels. Cable services offer savings when combined with other services such as broadband and telephone.
Via your Broadband/DSL connection:
A fourth digital platform is starting to emerge through use of digital subscriber line (DSL) technologies based on the existing telephone network.
That depends on what channels you wish to view, and how much you are prepared to pay. In some areas certain restrictions on the erection of a satellite dish may apply.
The Digital Switchover has already begun, and is planned to finish in 2012. Depending on where you live, you will need to start thinking very soon about what service you intend to choose, and how to upgrade your equipment.
Starting in Whitehaven Cumbria, in October 2007, the switchover will take four years and proceed in stages until all Television regions have been converted, as follows:
If this is a feature you use frequently then you will also need to upgrade your recording equipment.
If you use a video recorder or a DVD recorder for recording you will still be able to record and play back tapes or DVD¡¯s as before. But if you want to record one digital channel while you are watching another, you'll need a digital TV recorder with one or more digital tuners.
There are many equipment options available such as: Freeview Playback, Sky+ or Virgin Media. At we can advise you of the various options available, you should also consider a DVD recorder.
There are lots of opportunities to upgrade your existing equipment and take full advantage of the digital revolution. Think about the following:
HDTV-High Definition TV:
Digital quality doesn¡¯t just mean more choice. It means better quality pictures too. At we can advise you on the type of equipment you will need to enjoy stunning picture quality. Look out for the HD Logo.
Better Reception Quality:
A poor quality aerial may mean that you will be unable to receive all channels. At we can advise you on upgrading your aerial, or amplifying your signal, particularly if you run several TV's through your existing aerial. In particular you should consider a CAI (Confederation Of Aerial Industries) Benchmarked Aerials. Please ask about our CAI Approved Aerials.
Better picture quality:
As well as good quality receiving and viewing equipment, it is vitally important that your equipment is connected together with the best cables.
Better Sound Quality:
Digital broadcasting means purer sound which is often of CD quality. Take advantage of this by adding a Home Cinema system to your TV.
We are here to help! If you need advice on the best type of equipment for you call us now on 0870 863 6020. We sell top brands at incredible prices, and with great service too!
The team at are qualified as Approved Digital Advisers, which means that we can give you impartial advice on the digital switchover, the equipment available, and what it means for you.
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we can advise you of the various options available, you should also consider a DVD recorder.
