Q:        What is the Digital Television (DTV) Transition?

            A:  The DTV Transition is the nationwide termination of traditional analog television broadcasting, scheduled to occur on February 17, 2009 at midnight.  Analog television broadcasting is the current predominant method of transmitting television signals throughout the United States.  Digital television is a new method of television broadcasting which provides a better picture and sound quality than analog television.

            The DTV Transition provides to the viewer a better television experience, and in broader ways it will benefit the public.  The digital television signal is more efficient than the analog signal.  Therefore, the DTV Transition will free up major portions of the airwaves for public safety communications such as police, fire and emergency rescue, and new broadband wireless services. 

Q:        Will my analog television set still work after the DTV Transition?

        A:  Yes, provided that certain steps are taken.  If you have an analog television set and receive television service by means of an over-the-air antenna, you will need to attach a small digital-to-analog converter box to your television.  If you have an analog television set which is connected to cable or satellite, those service providers will make sure that your television set receives a viewable image.    If you have a digital television set, your television is ready for the DTV Transition.

            Analog television sets also should continue to work as before with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players and similar products. 

Q:        How do I know if I have a digital television set?     

        A:    The best way to determine whether your television set is digital is to consult your owner's manual.  If your owner's manual is not available, you may be able to look up information about your television set on the manufacturer's Internet website.  Also, check your television set to see if it is labeled with words such as:

• DTV

• ATSC (for Advanced Television Systems Committee)

• Digital Input

• Digital Tuner Built-In

• Digital Receiver Built-In

• Integrated Digital Tuner

• Integrated Digital Receiver

• HDTV

But, if your television has the following labels, it may not be a digital television and steps may need to be taken to continue receiving over-the-air broadcasts, as described above

• Digital Monitor
• HDTV Monitor
• Digital Ready
• HDTV Ready

Q:        How do I obtain a converter box?     

            A:  beginning early in 2008, converter boxes will be available for purchase at some retail stores.  The converter boxes are expected to cost between $50-70.  All U.S. households may receive up to two $40 coupons to go toward the purchase of up to two digital-to-analog converter boxes.  The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), a federal government agency, is in charge of the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program.  To request a coupon, consumers can apply online at www.dtv2009.gov.  The government also has set up a 24-hour hotline to take requests, 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009).

            For additional information about the DTV Transition and what you may need to do to prepare for it, visit the Federal Communications Commission's website http://www.dtv.gov/ or call the Federal Communications Commission at 1-888-225-5322 (TTY: 1-888-835-5322).