Woking Borough Council
Civic OfficesGloucester SquareWokingSurreyGU21 6YL
Telephone: 01483 755855
Satellite, cable and digital television - information for Council tenants
Digital television
Leaflets through your front door, TV and radio campaigns, posters in the street; it seems there is no escaping the age of digital TV. Yet, despite `watching telly' being one of our favourite pastimes, it seems most people are still confused about what digital TV is and how it will affect them. Here, we take a look at digital television and explain what it is, why it is being introduced and how it will change the way we watch television.
What is digital TV?
Digital TV is the name for the new way of transmitting television pictures and sound to each television, replacing the old analogue method with a new more effective system that enables everyone to watch a wider range of channels. In 2012 there will be an official 'switchover' to digital-only signals, and after this only televisions able to receive digital signals will work.
Why is it being introduced?
Today, more than two thirds of UK homes have digital TV. However, one in four cannot get it via their aerial, because the signal is too weak. Only by switching off the older analogue system is it possible to boost the digital TV signal and provide people with a greater choice of affordable digital TV options. The digital signal also frees up airwaves that could be used for innovations such as mobile TV or high definition TV.
What do I need to do?
If you don't already have digital TV and don't do anything, you won't be able to continue watching television broadcasts after the switchover unless your cable supplier continues to make it available.
So this means that you'll have to choose one of three ways to receive digital TV: through a satellite dish, for example with a monthly subscription with Sky TV; through an aerial, for example, by paying a one-off charge for a Freeview box; or through a cable, by paying for a monthly subscription from Virgin Media.
You will also need to ensure that every television set in your home can receive digital TV. Any TV set that you use solely to play back videotapes or DVDs, or with a games console, will not need to be converted.
When will it happen?
Digital switchover is happening in this area in 2012
What difference will it make?
The five usual channels, such as BBC1 and ITV1, will remain and more will be received as standard including news, history and children's channels. You can also receive high-definition channels without paying a monthly subscription by using Freeview HD or Freesat HD. There will also be extra services available such as the interactive red button and digital radio. A further option is to take out a monthly subscription, such as those offered by Sky or Virgin Media, which will mean more channels can be received.
What will it cost me?
There will be a cost if you don't already have digital TV. However, there are a number of options, ranging from monthly subscription packages to a simple one-off payment for a digital box or free-to-view satellite services. All of these options work with televisions already in the home, meaning that you do not have to buy a new television set unless you want to, because with very rare exceptions, all current TV sets can be adapted by using one of these options.
Where can I get more information?
More information on the digital switchover is available from Digital UK, a not-for-profit organisation co-ordinating the switchover process. They can be contacted by telephone on 08456 50 50 50. Alternatively, take a look at www.digitaltelevision.gov.uk. If you're looking for a reputable installer, select one from the Confederation of Trading Industries (CAI), call 020 8902 8998 or go to www.cai.org.uk.
Satellite television
I would like satellite TV at my Council property, will the Council provide it for me?
Satellite dishes are not provided by the Council. If you wish to install one, you must apply in writing to Tenant and Leaseholder Services. You may also need Planning Permission.
Council tenants in flats or maisonettes should already have access to our new communal reception systems, so do not need a separate satellite dish.
Contact us
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Tenant and Leaseholder Services at the Civic Offices or email T&L@woking.gov.uk