What is the 'digital switchover'?
Switching off the analogue terrestrial TV transmissions and switching the UK to a digital-only terrestrial network is called digital switchover.
Although you can get both analogue and digital transmissions at present, some time between 2008 and 2012 your analogue signal will be switched off and you will only be able to get a digital signal. That means if you don’t have a digital TV, you will not be able to receive a signal.

When will the digital switchover start?
The Digital switchover has already started. Between now and 2012 all the ITV regions will switch over from analogue to digital TV, with London being the last region to switch over. Please refer to the Switchover Schedule map on the Digital World page to see when switchover happens in your ITV region. For exact information about the area you live in please go to http://www.digitaluk.co.uk

How can I check what digital services are available in my area?
Depending on area you may be limited to service you can receive. To check, simply enter your postcode into The Digital Decision postcode checker on the Digital World page.
This will show which options are currently available in your area.

How much will the digital switch over cost me?
The cost will vary depending on what TV service and equipment you choose.
You may want to pay a monthly subscription fee or a one-off payment. It also depends on how many TV’s you have in your home and if you want to convert them all.
To find out more about the services available to you please refer to our Digital World page.

What will happen if I don’t switch over to digital TV?
If you don't do anything, you won’t be able to continue watching television broadcasts after the switchover as the government will switch off all analogue broadcasts. You will also need to ensure that every TV set in your home used to watch TV broadcasts can receive digital TV. Please note, if you use a TV only to play back DVDs, videotapes or with a games console, it won’t need to be converted to work.