Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Freeview Television?
Freeview television is the new terrestrial broadcasting standard being implemented across the UK. Since the start of the BBC's television public service began on the 22nd August 1932 there have been a few changes, broadcasting started with;
405 VHF: Black & White, BBC1 only but later followed by ITV.
The 20th April 1964 saw the first broadcast of BBC2
625 UHF: Black & White and also Colour, BBC1, ITV and BBC2
(then in later years, 2nd November 1982 came Channel 4 and on the
26th January 1997 came Channel 5).
5 channels (4 on some transmitters) is the maximum allocation under the present analogue spectrum. In order to increase the channel numbers it has been deemed necessary to change from analogue to digital transmissions.
Broadcasters will now be able to increase the viewable channels from 4 or 5 to in excess of 200.
What is the difference between Freeview and Freesat?
Freeview is delivered via an aerial whilst Freesat is delivered via a satellite dish.
Today if tuning to Freeview and, assuming that your aerial is suitable, you should be able to download about 110 TV & Radio Channels, depending on the Multiplex allocation for your receiving transmitter.
Whereas with Freesat, although run by the same company as Freeview, you should be able to download about 167 TV & Radio Channels including BBC1 HD.
When is the Digital Switchover (DSO) in Woking?
This part of the South East of England, which is covered by the Crystal Palace Transmitter, along with its Relay Transmitter in Guildford, will be switched over in two stages in April 2012.
Stage one: 4th April
The analogue BBC2 signal is switched off permanently
At the same time, BBC digital channels, including BBC2, extend to reach all areas.
Stage two: 18th April
Two weeks after stage one, the remaining analogue channels are switched off permanently.
The remaining digital channels become available in all areas.
Will I need a new Digital Aerial?
There is no such thing as a 'Digital Aerial'
If anybody tries to sell you a 'digital aerial', report them to Trading Standards because they are committing an offence under The Trade Descriptions Act 1968.
An aerial is an aerial, some work better than others when it comes down to the amount of signal they receive, some are more durable than others.
There is a published list of Benchmarked Aerials which have been tested for performance, and these aerials are seen to be 'fit for purpose' but this does not necessarily mean that these Benchmarked Aerials are durable.
Will I need to re-tune my TV or Set Top Box?
Yes you will.
If you have Freeview, Top Up TV or BT Vision, you will need to re-tune your digital TV or box or you will lose TV channels at switchover.
If your have a satellite or cable service, you will not need to re-tune.
What is re-tuning?
TV channels sometimes move to new frequencies, which means you may find some of your channels missing. Re-tuning will bring them back.
When do I need to re-tune in 2012?
On or after both stages of switchover.
If at any time you find you have lost any TV channels.
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