Digital TV

On February 17, 2009, all full-power broadcast television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and begin broadcasting only in digital. Digital broadcasting will allow stations to offer improved picture and sound quality and additional channels.

What is the Digital Television (DTV) Transition?

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

The DTV Transition provides viewers a better television experience and in broader ways it will benefit the public. The digital television signal is more efficient than the analog signal and that's why 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.

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

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 (rabbit ears), 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 they have with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players and similar products.

How do I obtain a converter box?

Beginning early in 2008, converter boxes will be available for purchase at some retail stores. The converter boxes are expected to cost between $50 to $70. All U.S. households may receive up to two $40 coupons to apply 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.

How do I get my coupons?

To request a coupon, consumers can apply online at www.dtv2009.gov. There is also a 24-hour hotline to take requests at, 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009). Applications can also be mailed to P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Coupons will be amiled to requesters. Consumers can apply for coupons until March 31, 2009 or until the funds are exhausted.

Where can I use my coupon to purchase a converter box?

There are more than 25,000 participating retailers, including seven of the largest nationalconsumer electronics retail chains, and more than 35 online and phone retailers. A complete list and a searchable database of retailers by zip code is available at https://www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx. When the coupon is mailed to you, it will include an insert with a list of nearby participating retailers. Consumers should investigate their options and call ahead to confirm availability of coupon-eligible converter boxes on teh day you plan to shop.

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).