Below is a summary of the type of aerial you will need to receive around 15 or more than 40 channels, for each transmitter group after switchover.
For more detailed information about predicted coverage of channels and services at your address, enter your postcode in the grey side panel.
Set top aerials
At least 50% of set top aerials should be ok after switchover. Your current analogue reception will be the best indicator of digital TV reception after switchover. If you receive a good analogue signal now, it is likely that you will receive a good picture after the switchover, as long as you have converted your equipment in order to receive digital. However, if you get a very snowy picture now, it is likely that you will get a bad digital TV picture.
Using a rooftop aerial is more reliable for Freeview TVs and boxes. If you think you might need to replace your rooftop aerial, do not attempt to adjust it yourself. Look for a Registered Digital Installer (RDI) who has been trained and security checked. To find an RDI near you visit www.rdi-lb.tv.
Please note: These are the aerial requirements for after switchover (the stage 2 date)
A wideband aerial will always be suitable to receive all available channels after switchover
| Transmitter | Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Up to 15* Channels | Up to 40 Channels |
Crystal Palace
| 4 April 2012 | 18 April 2012 | Group A aerial | Group A aerial |
Greenwich**
| 4 April 2012 | 18 April 2012 | Group B aerial | N/A |
Guildford
| 4 April 2012 | 18 April 2012 | Group B aerial | Group B aerial |
Hemel Hempstead
| 4 April 2012 | 18 April 2012 | Group B aerial | Wideband aerial |
Reigate
| 4 April 2012 | 18 April 2012 | Group C/D aerial | Wideband aerial |
*The 15 channels include the public service channels BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1, C4 and C5 and a range of associated digital channels such as ITV2, E4 and BBC Three.
**Greenwich changes from a group C/D aerial to a group B after switchover. However, existing aerials in good condition are likely to continue to work. Viewers should wait until after switchover to see if they need attention.
