Automatic updating

Digital tuners, like computers, have their own software programmes – often called firmware. This means set top boxes, digital TV recorders and iDTVs can be re-programmed by having updates automatically broadcast to them - as long as the box is left in standby. New services can be added and improvements made to the way a digital box works. It’s well worth buying one that gets updated automatically – we tell you which do in the individual detailed test reports.

Some boxes and iDTVs allow only manual updates – much less convenient because, to find out if one is scheduled, you would need to visit www.dtg.org.uk/retailer/download_schedule.pl and search for your brand.

If you have missed an update, a few manufacturers also post the updates on the internet. This can be complicated if you are not a keen computer user. You have to download the update file and then transfer this to the digital box or iDTV.

Remember the current 'digital tick' means a box will carry on working through switchover but does not guarantee it will be updated with future improvements.

If you are looking to buy now, also bear in mind some manufacturers might drop older existing products and replace them with new models with the planned improvements.

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