Digital switchover in the UK is being implemented by DigitalUK and is an ongoing process between 2008 and 2012. The Government is switching off the existing analogue TV signal that has been the back bone of TV transmission for over 50 years. The analogue TV signal which provides only 5 terrestrial channels (BBC1, BBC2, ITV, C4 and Channel 5), is being replaced by the digital transmission of the TV signal - a process referred to as "digital switchover". Digital switchover is being undertaken region by region in the UK - the Borders of Scotland have already switched-over and all the other TV regions will switch by 2012. The new digital TV service is still accessible via your standard (terrestrial) aerial, but you need a digital decoder (e.g. a Freeview box) to receive the digital TV signal.
Preparing for the digital switchover
The digital switchover is happening right now, and the analogue to digital switchover will be completed by 2012. So far the digital switchover timetable is in the early stages. Whitehaven in Cumbria was the first place to switch in October 2007, and the UK will be completely digital when the switchover finishes with Tyne, Tees and Ulster in 2012.
The digital switchover has already started. As digital experts we're dedicated to making your digital life easier, so here we tell you all you need to know about the digital switchover.
Simplifydigital can help
Don't worry if you don't know where your address stands in the digital switchover timetable, Simplifydigital can find out for you.
If you haven't gone digital yet, we're always here to offer free and impartial advice and you can use Simplifydigital's online digital services comparison tool to find the best digital deal for you.
Don't forget, our digital experts are on the phone to answer any questions you have too!
Preparing for the digital switchover is something we know about!
Simplifydigital can help you prepare for digital switchover. We are experts in digital TV and offer the best digital deals from all the UK digital providers, what's more we are the only digital TV experts in the UK to be accredited as impartial by the UK regulator Ofcom.