Converting to Digital TV:-
taken from www.digitalready.gov.au

Contents:-

1. Introduction
2. What equipment will I need?
3. Can I keep my analog TV?
4. Can I convert my TV myself, or will I need someone to help me?
5. I have rabbit-ears / mobile antenna, will it still work?

Introduction:

Digital television provides vastly improved picture and sound quality, including widescreen pictures and digital audio, including radio broadcasts. Digital television also offers the benefits of more channels and content. For example, the ABC has already introduced ABC2 which is only broadcast in digital. SBS has the SBS World News in digital. The Seven, Nine and Ten networks have introduced High Definition digital channels. Network Ten launched a digital-only sports channel, named One, in March 2009. Gradually, each of the free-to-air television broadcasters will be introducing new digital channels and content.

If you wish to continue to receive free-to-air shows, you will need a TV capable of receiving digital signals.

What equipment will I need?:

You will need either a digital set top box to connect to your existing analog television to receive digital signals, a television with an integrated digital tuner, or a subscription TV service that offers digital free-to-air channels.

Can I keep my analog TV?:

Yes, unless it is so old that it cant be connected to a set top box. Once you connect a set top box to your analog TV you'll have improved picture and sound quality as well as the extra digital channels. There are many models of set top box, from the basic to the highly sophisticated, so you can choose the option that is best for you. It must be remembered that a set-top box will not give you all the possible benefits of digital TV, such as widescreen pictures or high definition picture quality.

Can I convert my TV myself or will I need someone to help me?:

If you are able to connect a DVD player or VCR to your television, you should have no trouble connecting a digital set top box. The vast majority of people will be able to easily convert their TVs. However, if you're worried about conversion, ask your family, friends or neighbours first. The many TV retailers should also be able to help you. If you choose subscription TV, your service provider should provide full service installation and support.

I have rabbit-ears / mobile antenna, will it still work?:

Generally, it is unlikely that reliable, ongoing digital reception will be received via an indoor antenna. Even the movement of people can cause problems, but the biggest issue is likely to be the availability of all digital channels with the same orientation of the indoor antenna. However, there may be occasions (i.e. in areas of high signal strength) where indoor antennas may be sufficient.

Reference:
Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.  (n.d.a). Benefits of Digital television. Digital Switchover.  Retrieved 12 May 2009 from http://www.digitalready.gov.au/why.aspx

Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.  (n.d.a). FAQs. Digital Switchover.  Retrieved 12 May 2009 from http://www.digitalready.gov.au/faqs.aspx