The engineering work on the transmitter masts in the Border regions has already begun, but it will be late 2008 before the full switchover kicks off. In this region, several transmitters will switch over at different times so the specific date of your switchover will depend on your exact location within the region. Digital UK (the organisation leading the digital TV switchover process in the UK) will get in touch to let you know your exact digital switchover date.
Information about the switchover in your region
You should have received a leaflet telling you more about the switchover process from Digital UK. You can also download this from the Digital UK website.
If you have received a Granada leaflet but you live in a Borders area it may be possible for you to receive a TV signal from more than one region. This can depend on other factors such as direction of your aerial, and surrounding hills and trees that can affect reception. You can check the TV region by checking your ITV news service or visiting Teletext P106.
What happens after the switchover?
After the digital switchover, you should be able to receive a digital signal. The process will start by switching BBC2 only to digital, plus the first group of digital Freeview channels will become available. Following which there will then be a one month ‘grace' period to help Digital UK to resolve any problems that may arise.
If your current reception is slightly snowy, it's likely to improve after the switchover takes place. However, if your current aerial is in poor condition, or your current signal quality is very poor, you may need to look at other options such as cable TV or satellite TV.
How can I find out if I'm digital already and get the best deal?
If you haven't gone digital yet, our experts are available 7 days per week to offer free and impartial advice to help you find the best digital deal, or you can use Simplifydigital's online digital services comparison tool to find the best deal for you.