On February 17, 2009, all full power American television stations must switch their broadcasting from analog to digital
Digital Television, or DTV, is an innovative type of over-the-air broadcasting technology which will enable TV stations to provide crystal clear pictures and CD quality sound
Who is affected?
This change will ONLY affect people who receive free over-the-air broadcasts through antennas on television sets that are equipped with analog tuners
It does NOT apply to people who receive all of their TV service through cable, satellite or other paid service
It also does NOT apply to those who receive over-the-air broadcasts through television sets that are equipped with digital tuners
Approximately 70 million television sets are at risk of losing their signals after February 17, 2009, if owners do not make the easy transition to DTV
How can I tell if my television set is analog or digital?
Over the past several years, nearly all new television sets have included digital tuners
To determine whether your current TV set is able to receive digital signals, check the owner's manual or the TV set itself to see if it includes either an integrated HDTV tuner or an Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) tuner
You can also check by looking for your TV make and model on the manufacturer’s Web site
Be aware that a TV set designated as “HD-ready” or “HDTV monitor” does not have a built-in digital tuner. This type of TV set will still need to have a converter box to receive broadcast signals after February 19, 2009
How do I get a converter box?
You can buy a converter box at a wide variety of consumer electronics retailers, including Best Buy, Target and Wal-Mart
The typical cost of a converter box is between $50 and $70
To assist the American consumers, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration is providing $40 coupons for the converter boxes.
