Digital Conversion Coming This February

On Feb. 17, 2009, television stations across the country will be switching from analog, the old method of transmitting TV signals, to digital TV (DTV).

The new, innovative type of broadcasting technology delivers clearer pictures and sound, more channels along with high definition TV to those who have invested in HD television sets.

As TV stations begin to transition to DTV, consumers also need to make the change or they risk losing reception because they’re unable to receive a digital signal. So what does this mean for you? If you’ve purchased a TV more than five years ago, it must be connected to a cable or satellite service or to a special converter box that are being sold in electronic stores. If you’ve purchased a TV set manufactured after 2004, including digital and HDTV sets, they have built-in digital tuners that can accommodate the new digital broadcasts.

If you watch TV via cable or through a satellite* provider, you will not notice much of a change, but TV sets that receive a signal from an antenna will no longer be able to watch programs from local stations, including Houston’s 55.

Get prepared for the DTV transition

If you already have a digital television (HDTV, EDTV, SDTV):

Check to see if your digital television has a broadcast/integrated tuner. If not, obtain a set top converter box** or subscribe to a cable, satellite or telecomm service provider, which will allow you to continue using your TV.
Go to antennaweb.org for an antenna recommendation.
Purchase the necessary antenna and set top converter box if applicable.
Install your new equipment and enjoy Houston’s 55.

If you do not own a digital television (and do not plan on purchasing a new DTV set):

Go to antennaweb.org for an antenna recommendation.
Purchase the necessary antenna and obtain a set top converter box** for each television connected to an antenna or subscribe to a cable, satellite or telecomm service provider, which will allow you to continue using your TV.
Install your new equipment and enjoy Houston’s 55.

*Consumers receiving their television signal through a satellite system should contact their service provider to see how the digital switch will affect them. Most likely your viewing experience will not change.

* *The federal government is offering a coupon program to offset the cost of DTV set top converter boxes. All U.S. households are eligible for two coupons valued at $40 each on a first come, first serve basis. Go to www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888-DTV-2009 to request a converter box coupon. More information can be found at http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/faq.html.

DTV Links

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