Digital TV guide

Our much loved analogue TV network that has been in place since the 1920s is going to be switched off by 2012. This isn’t a mean or cost saving gesture by the government: it’s only by switching off analogue transmission that the government can increase the availability of digital services to everyone – which promises many more channels, better picture quality, and a whole host of other optional extras. So you’ll need to be prepared.

As a result, all televisions will have to be enabled to receive digital TV. This can be done either by buying a digital TV set top box (stb or digibox), or buying an integrated digital television that has a digital tuner built in (DTV). You’ll also need to choose your reception method – aerial, cable, telephone/ASDL or satellite, and get connected. Depending on the provider you choose, they may do this for you.

There is a digital TV package to suit everyone’s budgets and uSwitch.com is here to help you find it. Choose from the options that are important to you whether that’s:

• basic Freeview channels
• subscription channels such as Sky Sport or the Discovery Channel
• getting a digibox that will allow you to pause and record TV

Then again, you might opt for a bundled deal for broadband, digital TV and your home phone. Our digital TV comparison service will tell you about all the options available in your area.

Bundling services can be a great step into integrating digital TV into your home:

• you can save money – providers often give a discount on your broadband or free calls if you sign up to a bundled package
• easy bill management – you only receive one bill and need to make one payment each month

It’s also worth considering the drawbacks as well of bundling. The phone or internet connection that comes with your package may not be as good as the current one, so make sure you compare all the features of your bundled digital TV deal.