Digital TV - FAQ
Do I need digital?
Between 2008 and 2012, all television in the UK is being switched over to digital, so you will need digital
equipment to watch it. You can wait until nearer the time to go digital, or you can make the switch
now. What does 'digital' mean?
For TV and radio, digital means that the pictures and sounds are converted into computerised 'bits' of
information and compressed, and then sent from a transmitter to your TV or radio set. The signal arrives at your
set via an aerial (e.g the big TV aerial on your roof or the tiny one inside your radio) or via a satellite dish, a
cable or broadband. The signal is then converted back into pictures and sounds – with the aid of a decoder which is
either built in to the TV or in a set-top box connected to it.
What's the difference between digital and the old system?
Because the digital signal is compressed, it takes up much less space in the air waves (bandwidth) than the old
system (known as 'analogue'). This makes it possible to fit more TV channels, radio networks and other services
into the same amount of space.
Digital also gives better quality pictures and sound, with much less interference. TV pictures are
clearer, with no 'ghosting', and radio sound has no crackling or hissing.
Aerial, satellite, broadband or cable?
For a one-off payment and no
subscription, you can get the free digital channels through an aerial or via a satellite dish or broadband.
Virgin Media offer a free TV package but only if you subscribe to a Virgin phone line.
Free satellite (Freesat)
What you get. Around 66 free TV channels, some of which are broadcast in high definition (HD), plus interactive
features via the red button and up to 20 radio stations – all received via a satellite dish at your property.
What you need. A Freesat digital box or a Freesat HD digital box. You also need a fully installed satellite
dish.
Digital terrestrial television (DTT) (Freeview)
What you get. At time of posting, 48 free TV channels, plus interactive features via the red button and
more than 20 radio stations - all transmitted to your normal TV aerial.
What you need. Either a set-top box which you simply connect to your existing TV by plugging in a lead or a TV
set with a Freeview receiver built in or a Freeview Playback digital TV recorder. You pay only for the
equipment, you don't need a subscription.
Your aerial. You may need to pay to upgrade your rooftop TV aerial. An indoor aerial on top of your TV is not
likely to be good enough.
What free channels are available on Sky and Freeview?
Lists of current free channels are available on the TV Broadcast Info page.
Our Sky remote code pages are no longer supported. Please try Satcure.
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