WHAT IS THE DIGITAL SWITCH OVER? 

Starting in 2008 and ending in 2012, TV services in the UK will go completely digital, TV region by TV region. This process is called digital switchover.The UK’s old television broadcast signal (known as “analogue”) is being switched off and replaced with a “digital” signal. Any TV set that’s not converted to digital when the switchover takes place will no longer receive TV programmes.

Why is it happening? 

Switchover makes it fairer for everyone. Currently, one in four UK homes cannot get digital TV via their aerial and many still cannot receive Five. Only by switching off the existing "analogue" broadcasting system is it possible to boost the digital signal and get it to parts of the country that can't currently receive it.

What channels will be available as a result of switchover?

Switchover will make Freeview available to virtually all UK households, up from 73% at the start of the programme. All households within terrestrial coverage will be able to receive the main five public-service channels (BBC1&2, ITV1, C4, Five) and associated digital-only services, including BBC Three, BBC Four, BBC News 24, itv2, itv3, E4 and more4, around 18 channels in all. A range of digital radio services will also be available. Switchover will also significantly increase availability of non-public service Freeview channels, such as Sky Three and Price Drop TV. Later this year, Digital UK will launch a new online service which will tell people which Freeview channels will be available in their area at switchover.

How do I get set for digital?

You don't need to replace your existing TV unless you want to but you will need a digital box (via aerial, satellite dish or cable).However if you are thinking of upgrading your current set consider getting a TV with a digital box built in (a digital TV") and look for the 'digital tick' logo .  

And don't forget your video recorder if you use a video (VCR) or a DVD recorder for recording you will still be able to record and play back tapes/DVDs 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 (Freeview Playback, Sky+ or ntl:Telewest TV Drive).