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Digital Television Transition
On February 17, 2009, broadcast television will begin transmitting 100% digitally, and as a result analog television transmission will become a thing of the past. This switch to an all-digital transmission format, called DTV, will free up major portions of the airwaves for public safety communications such as police, fire and emergency rescue services, as well as for the wireless industry to promote innovation and competition for consumers. Below are some frequently asked questions about the issue and a few web sites that can provide you with additional information. If you have any other question, please don't hesitate to contact my office.
Q: How do I know if my TV will be affected by the DTV transition? A: If you currently watch TV on an analog TV set with "rabbit ears", have a roof-top antenna and/or do not subscribe to cable, satellite or another form of pay-TV, you may be affected by the transition. Almost all TV sets purchased before 1998 are exclusively analog and millions sold after that date are as well although some may also possess digital tuners if purchased in the last few years. It is the analog-only TVs that are affected by the transition. Q: I'm still not sure if I will be affected by the transition. Is there another way to determine if my TV set is analog? A: Sure. Click here. Q: What can I do to keep watching TV on my current analog TV set after the transition? A: You can keep your analog TV and continue to watch television on it if you hook it up to a converter box that converts the new digital signals back into analog form. Q: How can I get a converter box for my TV, and how much will it cost? A: You will be able to obtain up to two $40 coupons per household, each of which can be used (but not combined) towards the purchase of up to two converter boxes. You can apply for the coupons now through March of 2009, and you can do so either online, or by calling the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline, at 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), or by downloading an application and sending it either by mail or fax to: By Mail: P.O. BOX 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000 By Fax: 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632) To download the application, click here. The converter boxes will likely cost anywhere from $50-$70 each. Q: Once I have mailed my application, when can I expect to receive my coupon? A: The coupons will be mailed via the US Postal Service beginning in late February and will be sent according to the order in which the applications were received at the National Telecommunications Information Association. The coupons look like plastic gift cards, and will only be available through this process of application and mail delivery. You will not receive a coupon until converter boxes are available in your area. Q: Where can I purchase a converter box? A: There are a large number of retailers that have converter boxes available for purchase, including, but not limited to: Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart, and K-Mart. To find out the retail locations closest to you, click here. Q: Will I be able to install the converter box on my own? A: Yes, you should be able to install any converter box you purchase on your own using the manufacturer's instructions. If you have any questions, the converter box manufacturer will provide technical help.
If you have any other questions that were not answered here, please explore the resources listed below, or contact my office. |
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