What is digital TV?
Digital is a way of transmitting TV pictures and sound as computerised bits of information. This takes up much less space in the airwaves (bandwidth), so there is room for more channels and features than the basic five channels available on analogue TV.
All TV in the UK is being switched over to digital in the next few years, so sooner or later you will need to go digital.
What does digital TV give me?
The full range of features depends on the platform you choose (digital terrestrial, satellite, cable or broadband), but the main benefits are:
- More TV channels: over 40 channels
- Better quality pictures and sound: very little interference, no 'ghosting', hiss or crackling
- Interactive features: press the red button for information, extra coverage, etc. More about interactive TV.
- Radio through your TV: at least 20 radio stations.
More about radio through your TV. - Electronic programme guide (EPG): on-screen information about what's on
- Better accessibility: recordable subtitles on many programmes, audio description on some
How do I get digital TV?
If your TV receives more than five channels, it is probably digital already. If not, you will need to adapt it or replace it. Any TV can be adapted simply by connecting it to a set-top box with an extra lead (SCART connector). You will need to adapt every TV in your home and also any video or DVD recorder you use to record from TV. You don't need to adapt or replace every set at the same time.
The ways to receive digital TV are:
- via an aerial
- via a satellite dish
- via a cable
- via a phone line
To find out which digital services are available in your area, use the 'Can I get Digital TV?' postcode checker (right).
Cost and equipment
The cost depends on the platform, the service and the equipment you choose.
Without a subscription
Make a one-off payment for the equipment to get more than 40 free channels and other features.
Digital TV without a subscription.
Compare the options at a glance.
With a subscription
All the free channels and features, and the equipment, plus a wide choice of other packages.
You don't have to buy a new television set, because a traditional analogue TV can be adapted for digital by connecting it to a set-top box with an extra lead.
If you do want to buy a new TV, make sure it has digital built in – an integrated digital television (IDTV). Prices start around £100. Look for the digital 'tick' logo.
Digital TV with a subscription.
Compare the options at a glance.
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