Set up and tuning

Some iDTVs will guide you through the settings on-screen. For others you will have to use the on-screen set-up menu – this should be explained in the manual.

The first step is to tune in the channels. This may happen automatically when you first switch on or you may have to initiate it. Again the instruction manual will explain.

Tuning in may take a minute or two as it automatically scans, looking for channels. All being well, you should get about 80 TV channels and about 48 radio stations.

If you get significantly fewer then there are a couple of possible explanations. You may want to check your coverage with Freeview – it’s possible you may be getting only partial coverage. Or you might need to upgrade your aerial.

If you get significantly more than 80, it may mean that you are receiving signals from two different transmitters. You could find double entries listed on screen for some channels that you will need to delete. Others in your neighbourhood are likely to have the same problem. However many of the latest TVs have a system called 'Regional Preference' which takes care of this problem by asking you to choose the TV region you want.

Maybe get a local Registered Digital Installer (RDI), if one is available in your area, to adjust your aerial so the TV ignores the weaker channels in the future. The RDI scheme is new, so there are not yet many available. See the RDI website for listings.

Make sure you keep the instruction manual for your iDTV in a safe place as you will need to re-adjust its settings when changes are made to the broadcast signals at switchover.