Digital TV Switching Guide

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Digital TV Switching Guide

It's an exciting time for digital TV and there are some fantastic options now available:

• Satellite subscription digital TV

• Broadband TV (IPTV)• Cable TV

• Free-to-View digital TV

• High Definition TV

Satellite (Sky)
Sky Digital is the only satellite digital TV supplier in the UK and supplies their own equipment such as the satellite, Digibox and HD recorder as part of the service.

Going for satellite digital TV will give you access to around 200 channels and several options on equipment. There is typically a one-off installation charge for fitting the satellite dish, running cabling and setting up the set-top box. In some circumstances it may not be possible to install the satellite dish, particularly if the dish is likely to be impaired by trees or buildings, or if planning permission does not allow for this type of external fitting.

Broadband TV (IPTV)
IPTV (IP Television) is a digital TV service that is delivered using Internet Protocol over a network infrastructure, such as via a broadband connection to your TV or home computer. IPTV can be provided in conjunction with Video on Demand and internet access. Providers include BT Vision, Virgin Media On Demand, Tiscali TV and Joost.

Cable TV
Cable TV services are delivered to homes via networks of under-street fibre optic cables. It's available in densely populated areas of the UK but offers more channels than free-to-view digital TV service Freeview. In 2007 the two largest UK based networks, NTL and Telewest, merged to form Virgin Media. Cable TV and broadband services do away with the need for a BT line and can carry around 200 TV and radio stations, along with additional interactive services.

All packages include those digital channels available on Freeview. To get connected to Virgin Media, an engineer visit is required to connect up the cable TV service from the street into the cable TV set-top box.

Freeview and Top UP TV
Freeview is a free-to-view service and requires a digital decoder, a playback digital TV recorder or a Freeview ready TV. Launched in October 2002, the Freeview service provides free-to-view digital TV channels, radio stations and interactive services through an aerial. It may also be worth investing in a good quality aerial to ensure you get a jitter-free reception.Top Up TV gives you access to all Freeview channels, and a range of programmes from pay-TV channels. There are two options; Top Up TV Anytime and Top Up TV+ which offers digital TV recording similar to Sky Plus. The advantage of both is that there are no lengthy contracts but you can still access the TV you want, when you want.

High Definition TV
HDTV is a new technology that will allow viewers to receive higher definition television pictures. Some providers like Sky HD provide certain TV programmes in this new format.

What kind of digital TV is available in my area?
Our digital TV comparison service will help you get your best deal on equipment and services. We recommend you use the YourHomeBills.com digital TV calculator to get the best deal for you.