In general, there are two problems with DTV. The first is that, unless your decoder is of a special type which contains more than one digital TV tuner, you cannot record one digital TV programme while watching another (although you can usually record an analogue terrestrial TV programme while watching a digital TV programme, or vice-versa, if your system is properly set up).

The other problem is that one DTV decoder will only allow you to get DTV reception on one of your TV sets. You need to purchase additional boxes or take out additional subscriptions to get it to work with the other TV sets in your home.

There is an additional issue to contend with if you want to access the Freeview DTT service or Top Up TV: today’s DTT decoders only usually work if they are connected to a rooftop aerial. They will not generally work with the small aerials that can be purchased to place on top of, or close to, a TV receiver (usually a portable).