Switchover from analogue to digital

[Coldicote]

We all know the switchover from analogue to digital is coming and for some it has already happened. There is much said about getting ready for it and that every TV in the house must be prepared for the switchover. What does one actually have to do? Is buying a Freeview box or something similar sufficient, and can it be used now before the switchover? I'm not concerned with recording - just being able to view. Grateful for any guidance please.

[bednobs]

yes, do that or get a service like sky/virgin

[Ethel]

Yes, just a freeview box will do the job.

Check here to see what freeview channels you can get now:
http://www.freeview.co.uk/availability

If it says you can get some freeview channels, buy a box now.

If it says you can't - talk to your neighbours. If they can get it, so will you.

If you definitely can't get Freeview yet, save your money and buy the latest one when you can get it.

[Coldicote]

Many thanks to both. I'm sure many others will welcome the information. Ethel's URL link is particularly useful.

[Haggisdj]

Sky+ will change your life forever...

[Postdog]

Actually you can get freeview recorders now that do pretty much most of what skyplus can do, only for a one of fee and not paying for loads of channels that you'll never watch anyway.

[vehelpfulguy]

Note that if you have a VHS recorder (tape) and you rely on that to record TV programs you may have a problem.

VHS recorders had a TV tuner inside them, and they were analogue. When you recorded a TV program onto tape you were actually recording usng that TV tuner.

When analogue is switched off this TV tuner will no longer be able to pick up a TV signal to use to record programs.

[Coldicote]

Interesting answers here and thank you everyone. I'll be shopping very soon for a Freeview box. Sorry about Pickle's predicament - it will be interesting to know how the switchover works when the time comes. 'Bye for now.