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Do I need to buy a new TV?
No, you don't need to get a new TV as almost any TV can be converted with a digital box, even black and white ones and televisions without scart sockets. Your television needs to have either a scart or RF input. Unfortunately if your television does not have either of these inputs it cannot be converted to receive digital television.
Most, but not all, digital boxes come with scart sockets so make sure you check if you television has one. If your TV was made after 1996 it will have a scart socket.
If your TV does not have a scart socket, you can purchase a digital box that connects to the RF input (aerial socket) on your television.
Thomson, Humax, Linsar and Commtel are some of the manufacturers that currently produce these. An electrical retailer will be able to advise further on your options, the key thing is to ensure that the box has an RF Modulator which means it will work without a Scart connection.
Model numbers of some digital boxes with RF Modulators:
If you decide to get new equipment make sure you look for the 'digital tick' logo - TV sets, digital boxes and digital TV recorders that carry the 'digital tick' are designed to continue working after switchover.
How do I find out what equipment I need for switchover?
In order to watch TV after switchover you will need to ensure that you have converted or upgraded your TV equipment to receive a digital TV signal. You don’t have to buy a new TV, all current TVs, with very rare exceptions, can be converted by connecting a digital box, even black and white ones.
When buying TV equipment look for the "Digital Tick" logo which indicates products and services designed to work before, during and after switchover.
In addition, ask if the shop assistant is an approved digital adviser. Digital advisers are trained members of staff who can answer questions on switchover. Just look for an "Ask Digital" badge.
Will a set-top aerial work for Freeview?
Usually a rooftop aerial is more reliable for Freeview boxes. However, if you receive a good reception now, a set-top aerial may work in certain circumstances.