82% of households in Wales now received digital by Freeview

In 2009 a rolling switch-off programme will begin across Wales turning off the older analogue signal.

But while knowledge of the timing is low in Wales, 77% are aware the switchover is happening.

The research was carried out by Digital UK, the independent body leading the switchover.

It also revealed that 82% of homes in Wales now received digital television on at least one set.

The encouraging news is that...most people know switchover is coming Emyr Hughes, Digital UK

A high-powered digital signal will take the place of the old analogue signal, making Freeview available through an aerial.

All households must ensure their television is capable of receiving a digital signal before the switchover.

The switchover in the UK is expected to begin in 2008 and continue region by region until it is complete in 2012.

In Wales it will begin in 2009, with the Preseli transmitter in Pembrokeshire, and Carmel near Cross Hands in Carmarthenshire.

They will be followed by Llanddona on Anglesey and Moel-y-Parc near Mold, serving north Wales.

The remaining three transmitters, Blaenplwyf in Ceredigion, Long Mountain near Welshpool, and Wenvoe, Cardiff, will all switch to digital between January and March 2010.

'Many unsure'

Emyr Hughes, regional co-ordinator for Digital UK, said: "The encouraging news is that, according to the research, most people know switchover is coming.

"But many people are unsure when the change will affect them.

"We expect that to change as switchover approaches, and we'll concentrate on communicating the date to all Welsh viewers over the coming months."

Digital UK has sent information about the switchover to every household in Wales, and will do so again one year before it takes place.