Starting in 2008 and ending in 2012, TV services in the UK will go completely digital, TV region by TV region. This process is called digital switchover. The UK’s old television broadcast signal (known as “analogue”) is being switched off and replaced with a “digital” signal. Any TV set or video recorder that’s not converted to digital when the switchover takes place will no longer receive TV programmes.
Why Border First?
Switchover is a complicated process, and needs to be done in stages so that everyone in the country will be ready for it. The Border TV region was chosen to go first as it has very little signal interference with other countries, such as France, who are also switching over to digital. It’s a great opportunity for all the people in the Border TV region to receive the benefits before anyone else.
Copeland first
Most of Copeland is to be the first area to switch to digital television in the UK. The switchover date has been brought forward to autumn 2007.
A letter will be sent to every household in the area explaining what is happening. There will also be advertisements in local media, and then a further leaflet to every household. Information will also be made available through libraries and local retailers. Final reminders about the switch will be issued closer to the time.
The transmitters which will be switched in the autumn are those at Bigrigg, Eskdale Green and Gosforth. Copeland residents who receive their terrestrial television signal from elsewhere including the Bleach Green and St Bees repeaters should not be affected. For detailed information call Digital UK on 08456 50 50 50.
To view more information about the switchover in Copeland follow the link below to the Digital UK switchover website.
What are the benefits?
Currently only 51% of households in the Border region can get digital reception through their aerial. After switchover almost everyone will be able to enjoy the benefits of digital TV.
- Digital TV is more efficient
It frees up airwaves that could be used for innovations such as mobile TV or high definition TV.
- A world leader in broadcasting
With many other countries switching to digital, moving to the best available technology will ensure the UK continues as a world leader in broadcasting.
- What does this mean for me?
You will need to get set for digital. This will involve making sure that every one of your TV’s that you want to keep watching after switchover can receive a digital signal.
You don’t need to replace your existing TV unless you want to but you will need a digital box (via aerial, satellite dish or cable). However if you are thinking of upgrading your current set consider getting a TV with a digital box built in (a “digital TV”) and look for the digital ‘tick’ logo.
And don’t forget your video recorder: If you use a video (VCR) or a DVD recorder for recording, then you will need to adapt it with a digital box, or replace it with a digital recorder that has an inbuilt digital box, sometimes called a PVR.
Look for the digital ‘tick’ logo which certifies products and services that are designed to keep working after switchover.
For further information about the Digital Switchover in the Border region visit the Digital UK website by following the link below.
More information on the digital tv switchover.... (External site)