Digital TV Switchover on the Isle Of Man
The Isle of Man is going digital. By the Spring of 2009 the Isle of Man (part of the Border region) will be the one of the first areas in the British Isles to switch from analogue to digital TV broadcasting.
The following is some helpful information to guide you through the switchover – if you have any questions do not hesitate to give CleerVu Aerial & Satellite Specialists a ring on 623979.
Switchover is coming to the Isle of Man
The Douglas transmitter and its 9 relays, serving the Isle of Man, switches on 18th June 2009.
In addition to the five traditional TV channels, everyone will receive around 20 of the most popular Freeview channels as standard. Viewers who receive their signals from off-island transmitters may be able to receive up to 40 channels.
The list of channels that we believe are going to be available for Isle of Man residents are:
BBC1, BBC2, BBC3, CBBC CHANNEL, BBC NEWS 24, ITV, C4, ITV2, ITV3, MORE 4, E4, ITV 4, QUIZCALL, CITV, BBC4, CBEEBIES, BBC PARLAIMENT, CHANNEL 5, FILM 4 + 1, COMMUNITY CHANNEL
Almost any TV set can be converted
All you need is a digital set top box – we have several to choose from in our showroom. However, if you are planning on getting a new TV, look for one with the “digital tick” logo. This means it is designed to continue working after the switchover, and you don’t need to purchase a digital set top box.
Do you need to change your existing Aerial?
Not necessarily, it all depends where you live. Some homes on the Isle of Man, and in particular in the Port St Mary area, may need to get a wideband aerial to receive the new digital signal. The Douglas area served by the Douglas transmitter will not be affected.
There are areas on the Island that already receive “Freeview” i.e. Ramsey, parts of Laxey/Baldrine, the north and west coast, you do not need to do anything, you are receiving your pictures from a UK transmitter.
We would also suggest as a guide, if your analogue terrestrial TV signals are of a poor quality i.e. grainy or snowy, then have your aerial etc. checked prior to the digital switchover. Some aerials that are currently in the loft space may also have to be fitted outside, but until the switchover actually happens we do not know for sure.
There are several ways of going digital
The choice is yours really:
- One off payment via services such as Freeview, freesat from Sky and Freesat
- A monthly subscription via services such as Sky TV
Prices will vary depending on which services you choose.
Do you have more than 5 channels already?
If you do then you’ve already gone digital. Don’t forget though that if you only on your main set, you still need to convert any other TV sets that you have in the house – such as in the bedroom or kitchen.
Videos & DVD Recorders
Your existing Video & DVD recorders will still play back and record, but most won’t be able to record one channel while you’re watching another. The simplest way to do this is to get a digital TV recorder such as Sky+ or Freeview+ – we stock, supply and fit both of these.
There is a Digital Switchover Help Scheme
There is a Help Scheme for those that need the most assistance to switch to digital. You will be eligible if you are 75 or over or entitled to certain disability allowances. If you are elegible the Help Scheme will be in touch in plenty of time to ask if you want help.
Don’t leave your Digital TV Switchover to the last minute!
It’s surprising how quick time flies and all we can advise is that if you think you need to upgrade your aerial or need some new equipment, take action now – we are anticipating massive demand just before the digital switchover so make sure you aren’t left without TV pictures by calling us on 623979.