Some Chinese philosopher once said that even the longest journey begins with a first step, and boy has it taken a long time to achieve even that. We have after all been talking about digital switchover ever since the first digital satellite broadcasts began in 1999.

Our journey from the analogue terrestrial TV realm to the digital one has now begun in earnest and it’s going to affect every person and household in this country by the time the whole process is complete in 2012 (with the exception of the Channel Islands, which will go digital in 2013).

The UK Government - through its Digital UK agency - is rolling out digital TV broadcasts across the country on a region by region basis, something that should hopefully give you time to get the help, advice and equipment you need to make sure that you’re ready. This quick guide should help you get started.

1. When will you need to be ready?

Digital UK has set out a plan for switchover based on the 14 ITV regions that we have now based on population density. That means the ITV area of Borders goes first with highly populated areas like London, Tyne Tees and the Central region coming last.

The aim is to give Digital UK plenty of time to solve any problems early on so they don't cause chaos when they get to the areas where most people live. Digital UK has a postcode checker for more specific information about your area.

2. Why should I switch?

Apart from the fact that you have little choice, the transition to digital TV offers a number of benefits. The first of these is that you’ll have a much wider selection of channels (up to 44 on Freeview terrestrial) than the four or five available now. You’ll also be able to enjoy digital radio, without the need for a separate DAB receiver, and will also be able to take advantage of Digital Teletext / Ceefax - a much more advanced version of the blocky, slow-loading analogue service you may be used to.

3. What equipment do I need?