Reception problems

Will I need to upgrade my aerial to get digital TV through an aerial?

This will depend where you live and if you have already gone digital, are going digital now (before your region's analogue switch off), are going digital now during the switchover period. Any rooftop aerial, in good condition, is capable of receiving both an analogue and terrestrial digital TV service like Freeview. You don't need to have a special 'digital' rooftop aerial.

However prior to switchover, in many areas the digital channels may be on frequencies not covered by your existing aerial so you may need an aerial upgrade. Your local aerial installer will be able to advise you on the most suitable aerial that will cover both the pre and post switchover periods. If digital TV is not available yet in you local area or you choose to wait for digital TV then it is likely that your existing aerial will be able to receive all the main BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 services that you are entitled but it may not be able to get all the other commercial channels without an upgrade.

If you are served by a local relay transmitter, after switchover you will be able to get all the main BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 services that you are entitled but you may not be able to get all the other commercial channels you if these are not carried by the relay. This is due to technical limitations concerning available frequencies. A local aerial installer will be able to advise you of your options.

Use the Digital UK's website Postcode Checker to check signal stength in your area. If you select the Freeview link, it will tell you if you need to upgrade your aerial for reception now and for reception after analogue switch off. Your local registered aerial installer will also be able to advise. You can also check your aerial by visiting analogue teletext (Ceefax) page 284.

Registered Digital Installers Licensing Body (RDI-LB) is the UK's official body for registering licensed digital aerial and TV systems installers. To be registered installers must be professionally trained, fully insured and have a clear criminal record. Use their website to find a local licensed installer www.rdi-lb.tv

For general information about getting a digital signal, see Getting a signal through an aerial.