Up-to-date unbiased digital TV, HDTV information on digital services from various sources

Latest Freeview and other news

28/01/2010 Sky has announced changes to their packages to simplify the choices (click here)

15/01/2010 Date for Channel Islands switchover. It will switch in one go on 17/11/2010 (click here)

16/11/09 HD Roll-out has been confirmed by the BBC (click here)

Go to our News page for other up to date information

Digital TV The Aerial option

Using your existing (analogue) TV all you need is a Freeview Digital Box - again available from most electrical retailers. One thing to note is that there are different types, with some having additional features. They are as follows:

• Standard Freeview box
• With built in recorder
• Top-up (so you can add additional channels)
• HD Freeview - coming soon!

The prices range from the standard set-top box at £15 to the HD Ready recorder box at £150 - these set-top boxes are not yet available in shops, although they have been developed. If you are in the market for a new TV, most have Freeview built in or perhaps set-top Box - why not check out Digital Direct.

Digital TV Dish alternative

Obviously you need a satellite dish, although many of the packages include installation of the dish - so please check beforehand. Alternatively you could install the dish yourself, if you do, you may require a device called a 'satellite finder' (gauge showing strongest signal) or you could get a local installer to do it for you. The types of digital boxes are:

• Standard digital box
• Digital box with HDD (Hard Disk) for recording
• HD (High definition) versions of the above

In the UK a standard Freesat is about £50 and up to £300 for the HD Recorder. Sky boxes are Free for the standard and Sky+ boxes and £49 for the HD Recorder, but remember you have a monthly rental fee that varies according to package you choose, whereas the Freesat is a one off charge only.