Today, television stations air programming in analog and digital formats and will continue to do so through February 17, 2009.  On that date, however, full-power television stations, such as ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox and PBS affiliates, will stop broadcasting in analog and continue broadcasting in digital format only.  The switch from analog to digital broadcasting is referred to as the digital television transition or the DTV transition.

The digital television transition will provide many advantages for consumers: it will free up frequencies for use by police, fire, and other public safety officials; will allow broadcasting networks to offer improved picture and sound quality, as well as more programming choices; and will provide more robust wireless service offerings. 

To prepare for the digital television transition, some consumers will need to take steps to continue to enjoy television.  Cable and satellite subscribers should not be impacted by the transition, but if they have questions they should contact their service provider.  Consumers who enjoy free over-the-air television should determine if they own a digital or analog television.  Families who own a digital television will be able to continue to watch free programming after the transition.  Analog televisions receiving free programming through an antenna, including outside antennas and “rabbit ears”, will not work after February 17, 2009.  Consumers who rely on analog televisions to enjoy free programming must purchase a digital-to-analog converter box.  A converter box is a product that will keep an analog television working after February 17, 2009. 

Fortunately, Congress established a coupon program to offset the cost of acquiring a converter box.  Until March 2009, all households will be eligible to receive two $40 coupons to be used toward the purchase of two converter boxes, which typically cost between $40 and $70 each.  Coupons will expire after 90 days and will come with a list of retailers that are selling converter boxes in their neighborhood, as well as through the telephone and the Internet.

For more information about the coupon program or to obtain a $40 coupon, please visit the Converter Box Coupon Program website or call the Program’s toll-free number at 1-888-388-2009.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call their toll-free number at 1-877-530-2634. 

February 2009 will arrive sooner than we think.  Now is the time to prepare for the digital television transition.   For more information about the transition visit the Federal Communications Commission's Digital TV Transition website or call them toll-free at 1-888-225-5322 or toll-free through TTY at 1-888-835-5322. 

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