Are you ready for the South Wales Switchover

From 2008 -2012 a rolling program is in place to change all televisions in the UK over to a digital signal. TV campaigns have been on our screens advising us of why and when it`s going to happen.

 So are you ready ?

I expect you are wondering why we need to change, so here come`s the technical stuff explanation.

 Digital is now the best technology for broadcasting TV. To make sure everyone in the UK can receive it, the signal needs to be available for free everywhere, ideally through a normal aerial. At present, around 74% of households are in areas where this is possible. Digital signals for the rest of the country can only be switched on when the existing analogue ones are switched off. After switchover almost everyone (at least 98.5%) will be able to receive digital TV through an aerial

 Here are a few helpful hints and tips to get you prepared

 To make sure you keep your TV service, you will need to convert your TV to digital before the switchover happens in your region. Don`t Panic – Digital switchover doesn’t apply to radio.

 If you can already watch more than five channels, it is probably digital already. If not, you will need to adapt it by connecting it to a digital set-top box, or replace it. This applies to all the TV sets in your home, and to any recorder (video or DVD) that you use to record from the TV.

 So if you have dreamed of having a top of the range Plasma TV, now is a good time to make the change.

 When will switchover happen in my area?

Digital UK, an independent organisation, is co-ordinating the switchover. You will get plenty of advance warning, and there will be lots of information and help available. The switchover will happen between now and 2012, one region at a time.

Going digital is not difficult and need not be expensive. For more information, please visit Digital UK.

 Can I get help with the switchover ?

 The Government has announced a Help Scheme for some people who may have difficulty in going digital. This scheme is being funded by the BBC licence fee. If you are eligible you will receive equipment, help with installation and follow-up support, either free or for a subsidised fee. The Help Scheme is available to people who are aged 75 or over, or registered blind or partially sighted, or entitled to certain social security benefits. For more information, please visit Switchover Help Scheme