What’s new?
DTTB is the next progressive step for the development of broadcasting and television.
With DTTB technology, television station will now be able to run multi-channel broadcasts with improved quality of picture and sound. Additionally there will also be interactive programming which will provide value added services such as electronic programme guide (
What is digital television?
Television is being broadcast in a new way using digital technology. This technology allows more television channels and different services such as interactive and information services to be transmitted in the same amount of space as that used by analogue transmissions.
The digital signal can be received by standard aerials UHF, but you will need either a separate digital set-top box or a new television set with built in digital decoder (an integrated digital television set).
What do I get from digital television / transmission?
You can get a greater choice of channels, improved picture and audio quality and interactive services.
How can I receive digital television / transmission?
There are several ways to get digital television but availability depends on where you live. Some locations will not be able to receive digital television through an antenna until the digital switchover.
Can everyone receive digital television / transmission now?
At present, only
Do I need a new television set to receive digital television / transmission?
No. You can normally upgrade your existing analogue television by adding a digital set top box. (DVB-T or DTTB)
Do I need a new aerial / antenna?
Most households won’t if you use Ultra High Frequency (UHF) antenna. If you choose to get digital TV through an aerial/antenna, and have reception problems even though you are in a current coverage area, you will need to check if your existing TV aerial and installations are suitable or maybe it is Very High Frequency (VHF) antenna.
Do I need to subscribe / pay?
No. It’s free-to-air. You only need to get set top box or decoder for digital TV when the services launched.
What is digital switchover?
Digital switchover is the process of changing the
Why do we need to switch?
The Government wants everyone to have a greater choice of digital TV options that they can afford. This can only be achieved through a universal switch to digital signals..
Digital switchover will also free up spectrum that can be used to provide new innovative services for consumers such as high definition television, broadcasting services to mobile phones and other handheld devices, and new interactive services
When will switchover happen?
The Government has confirmed that digital switchover will happen at 2015 in regional phase.
Will I still be able to receive the free-to-air channels I get now?
You will be able to receive the digital equivalent of all the channels you can get now and some interactive services.
Will I still be able to use my video recorder?
If you can receive digital broadcasts, you can still use your analogue video recorder (VCR) to:
• Watch a program on digital and record that program as you watch it
• Record a program when you are out provided that the digital tuner is set to the correct channel
• Play existing or pre-recorded videotapes.
Will I need to convert all my television sets?
You will need to ensure that every TV set in your home that you want to use to watch TV broadcasts 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.
