Do I need digital?
In the next few years (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 (eg 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 airwaves (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 or broadband?
For a one-off payment and no subscription, you can get digital TV through an aerial or via a satellite dish or broadband.

Free satellite
Freesat
What you get: 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 (from around £50), or a Freesat HD digital box (from around £120). You also need a fully installed satellite dish – a standard installation should be around £80.

Digital terrestrial television (DTT)
Freeview
What you get: more than 40 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 (from around £17) which you simply connect to your existing TV by plugging in a lead, OR a TV set with a Freeview receiver built in (from around £100), OR a Freeview Playback digital TV recorder (from £100). 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.

With a monthly subscription, you can get digital TV via satellite, cable or broadband with over 200 channels and HD services.