The Government has decided to switch television transmission from the current 'analogue' system to a different one known as 'digital'.

For most households in the Paradigm Group this will happen in 2012 although there are a few properties where the switchover will happen in 2011. Nothing will be switched off before then. However digital signals are currently being broadcast and many of you will already be enjoying the benefits of them.

What is digital TV?

Digital TV is the name for a new way of transmitting television pictures and sound to each television, replacing the old analogue signal with a system which allows people to get a wider range of channels. If you are currently getting more than the basic TV channels (BBC1, 2, ITV, Channels 4 and 5) then you are likely to be already watching digital TV.

Do I have to buy another TV to get a digital picture?

No, the vast majority of existing TVs will work with a digital signal but you will need to get what is known as a digital converter connected, unless you have bought a new TV with a digital tuner already in it. Every TV you use will have to be connected to a digital converter to get a picture after the switchover date. You can of course continue to use them for watching videos, DVDs or as monitors for games machines. Most TVs will be able to be connected to a digital converter, even black and white TVs, as long as they have either a scart socket (an oblong socket with lots of pin slots in it) or an RF socket (a small round socket with a pin in the middle).

What are the ways in which I can get a digital signal?

There are a number of ways:

• Buy a digital decoder for 'Freeview'. These cost from around £20 and will give you access to the 'free to air' digital TV channels . There is no monthly charge for this service once you have bought the box.
• Through cable services such as VirginMedia. There will be a monthly charge for this service.
• Through satellite services such as SKY or Freesat. There will be a monthly charge for this service if you have additional channels or services. SKY also sell a 'FREESAT from SKY' box which once purchased allows you free access to the 'free to air' channels.
• Through BT Fusion or Tiscali. There will be a monthly charge for this service and coverage may not be available in all areas.

For most people with individual aerials who get a good picture at the moment it is likely that they will still get a good digital picture after the switch. Some residents may have to consider improving their aerials if they do not currently get a good picture. If you are looking for a reputable aerial installer you can select one from the Confederation of Trading Industries (CAI) telephone: 020 8902 8998 or click here to go to their website.

For residents living in blocks with communal TV aerials Paradigm is currently considering what, if any, work needs to be done to the aerial systems already installed. It is possible that some homes with communal aerials will be unable to get digital TV without some work being carried out and that is why we are currently investigating what we need to do.

Where can I find out more?

For those who have access to the internet you can find out more at www.digitaluk.co.uk/home2 or you can phone DigitalUK on 08456 50 50 50 (Please note that you will be charged for a call to this number). They are an independent organisation set up to lead the switchover process and ensure that no one gets left behind. There is also a Government website at www.digitaltelevision.gov.uk/

We will be keeping you informed but as the switchover is still a long way off there is no need to be concerned. There will be plenty of warning before the Government actually switches the old system off and so everyone will have time to ensure that they keep a TV service.