What is the digital TV (DTV) transition?
The switch from analog to digital broadcast television is referred to as the digital TV (DTV) transition.
The legal stuff:
In 1996, the U.S. Congress authorized the distribution of an additional broadcast channel to each broadcast TV station so that they could start a digital broadcast channel while simultaneously continuing their analog broadcast channel. Later, Congress mandated that February 17, 2009 would be the last day for full-power television stations to broadcast in analog. Broadcast stations in all U.S. markets are currently broadcasting in both analog and digital. After February 17, 2009, full-power television stations will broadcast in digital only.
When is the digital TV (DTV) transition?
After February 17, 2009, full-power television stations will broadcast in digital only.
Why are we switching to DTV, what is wrong with our analog system?
Digital broadcast television is way better. Digital is much more efficient than analog and it allows for additional channels and more viewing options. Digital also deliver excellent picture and sound quality without the need for cable. Currently with analog, a broadcast T.V. station is only able to offer viewers one channel, however, with digital broadcasting, T.V. stations can offer up to 6 different channels, all with different programming, all free!
Will it still be free?
Yes, over-the-air broadcast will still be free, but with better picture, sound and more viewing options.
What do I need to do to be ready for the end of analog and the start of DTV broadcasting?
If you have one or more televisions that receive free over-the-air television programming (with a roof-top antenna or “rabbit ears” on the TV), the type of TV you own is very important.
A digital television (a TV with an internal digital tuner) will allow you to continue to watch free over-the-air programming after February 17, 2009. However, if you have an analog television, you will need a “digital-to-analog” converter box to continue to watch broadcast television on that set.
If I have an older analog television, will I have to throw it away after February 17, 2009?
No. A digital-to-analog converter box will allow you to continue using your existing analog TV to watch over-the-air digital broadcasts. You do not need to get rid of your existing analog TV. In addition, analog sets should continue to work as before if connected to a subscription service such as cable or satellite TV. Also, analog sets should continue to work with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, and similar products that you use now.
How do I get a converter box… I heard there is a free coupon?
Yes, the government has created a coupon program to help you with your purchase of a digital-to-analog converter box. The coupons may only be used for eligible converter boxes sold at participating consumer electronics retailers, and the coupons must be used at the time of purchase. The coupon is valued at $40 and you can get upto 2 per household. Digital-to-analog converter boxes sell between $40 to $70 each.
Click here, download the form, or call 1-888-388-2009 or 1-877-530-2634 (TYY).
To order your free coupon
Do I have to wait until after February 17, 2009 to watch DTV?
No, digital television is available now. If you watch over-the-air television today, you should be able to receive all or most of your local stations’ digital signals if you have a DTV receiver.
The FCC’s special website, www.dtv.gov, has more information on digital television, or call 1-888-225-5322 (TTY: 1-888-835-5322).
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