Most people buying new TV sets are probably more confused than excited by the ubiquitous D-word. Within a few years we will have digital satellite, digital terrestrial and digital cable (not to mention digital video), and marketing-conscious manufacturers are already putting "Digital ready" stickers on some new sets.

But be warned: even if a label on a new TV set says "Digital", you will still need a set-top box when you begin to receive digital TV. Philips, for example, is selling a set in Britain ready for the ONdigital terrestrial service, but Philips Ireland advises that set-top boxes are likely to be needed for future services here.

There is a possibility that, mirroring the development of television in the 1950s, British digital terrestrial signals will be receivable here along the east coast and near the Border. However, it is still unclear whether Irish viewers could even receive such signals, let alone subscribe to them. And even if they do, RTE's digital terrestrial service will replace this in the year 2000, meaning consumers should be wary of spending money on trying to get British digital terrestrial services.

With the three types of digital service all requiring set-top boxes, the new service will work with existing TV sets. However, Philips advises anyone buying a new set to buy widescreen, as this format will become much more popular as digital services grow. However, non-widescreen sets will continue to work, albeit with a slightly smaller picture. More important than your TV set, the choice of which way you receive digital signals will have a greater impact on the services and channels available to you.