As the long-anticipated digital switchover becomes a reality, many households will be turning to Freeview for their digital channels. Offering a wide selection of channels with great value for money, Freeview is the perfect option for those without a digital channel subscription. Yet there are still those who are unsure about what the service offers and a number of myths concerning Freeview continue to circulate.

1. I don’t need a TV licence

For any live streaming of television shows or films you need a TV licence and Freeview is no exception. TV Licences must be renewed each year and watching TV or Freeview in your home without one is a criminal offence.

2. There are regular costs

Aside from the cost of your TV licence, watching Freeview does not incur any other regular costs. For those purchasing a new TV, Freeview is built in to most new models whilst those with older televisions can invest in a set-top box instead.

Whichever method you use, you are provided with access to a large selection of free digital channels. These include the five traditional analogue channels and a range of others. There are no monthly fees for Freeview although you can choose to have a “top up” service where you pay an extra fee to receive specific channels (typically movies and sports channels).

3. You need specialist cables and sockets

If your Freeview is built into your TV then you do not need any specialist cables or sockets to connect it. A set-top box is usually connected to a television through a Scart lead. These are the most common form of connection between entertainment and media devices and are easy to purchase. Other than that, you only need to connect your TV aerial and speaker system (if you have one) via the usual ports.

4. You need a digital TV aerial

As there is no such thing as a digital TV aerial this is perhaps one of the biggest myths surrounding Freeview. Aerials are available in numerous forms and all of these are capable of receiving digital television. In some areas, a signal booster may be needed to improve your reception but this is not expected to be common.

5. It won’t work with my TV

Even if your TV doesn’t have a Scart socket you can still receive and watch Freeview. A number of set-top boxes are sold with a UHF modulator as well as/instead of a Scart socket and this can be used to connect your TV and Freeview.

Chloe Pringle is a regular blogger from London. She reviews electronic gadgets and offers advice on the best products for consumers. She evaluates both freeview and subscription-based digital services to help people manage the digital switchover.