Transition to Digital TV

On February 17th, 2009, all television broadcasts will transition from analog to digital. Is your TV ready?

Is your TV ready for the switch to 100% digital broadcasting?

On February 17th, 2009, all television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. If you are currently using a television with a digital tuner or if you subscribe to a cable or satellite service, you will not be affected by this switch. However, for those consumers utilizing over-the-air signals through a rooftop antenna or “rabbit ears,” the cost of switching can be a concern.

Legislation passed by Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program, which will subsidize consumer purchases of digital converter boxes. These boxes plug into your current TV and will keep it working after February 17, 2009. The government will provide two coupons worth $40 each to eligible U.S. households. The coupons will be issued between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, and must be used within three months after issuance towards the purchase of a stand-alone device used solely for digital-to-analog conversion.

There are multiple ways you can apply for your coupons:

  • Apply online at www.dtv2009.gov

  • Call the Converter Box Coupon Hotline at 1-888-388-2009 (TTY 1-877-530-2634)

  • Download and print out the application form

  • Mail the completed form to:

    TV Converter Box Coupon Program
    P.O. Box 2000
    Portland, OR 97208-2000

  • Fax the completed form to 1-877-388-4632

For more information about the transition, you may also wish to visit www.dtv.gov, an excellent resource provided by the Federal Communications Commission.

Why is the transition to digital TV necessary?

Digital television uses radio frequency spectrum much more efficiently than traditional analog television. A transition to all-digital broadcasting will free up critical frequencies for police, fire, and other emergency responders. Additionally, digital broadcasting allows improved picture and sound quality. A portion of the remaining analog spectrum will be auctioned off by the government for advanced wireless services. Some of the revenue raised in this auction will be returned to the U.S. Treasury, thereby contributing toward federal deficit reduction.

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