DTV Converter Box Guide

At midnight on February 17 of 2009 television as we know it will cease to exist.  Antenna’s and rabbit ears will no longer work without the aid of DTV converter boxes.  All United States television stations will cease broadcasting in analog.  They will all switch to digital broadcasting. 

What is digital broadcasting? 

Clearer pictures as well as more programming options are just a few of the features of digital broadcasting.  In switching from analog to digital broadcasting, it will free up airwaves.  Emergency responders that use these airwaves will have less chances of running into problems of not getting calls, or jammed signals.  

What is analog Television?

Analog television has been around since the 1940’s in the United States.  Radio waves transmit analog signals to your television allowing the picture to come through your television.

What is a DTV converter box?

In order for your analog television to work after the switch to digital broadcasting takes place, you will need a DTV converter box.  This is an electronic device that connects to your television and your antenna.  Once connected the DTV converter will convert the digital television signal to analog.  It will allow you to view your television without interruption.  You can purchase a DTV converter box instead of buying a new television.

Who needs a DTV converter box? 

If you subscribed to a pay television service such as cable or satellite, you will not need a converter box.  If you television set has a built-in digital tuner, you will not require a DTV converter box either.  Television sets connected to rabbit ears or outside antennas will most likely call for the DTV converter boxes. 
Where can I purchase a DTV converter box?

In February of 2008, DTV converter boxes will go on sale and be available to the public.  Most of the major retail stores such as Wal-Mart, Circuit City, K-Mart, ect. will carry the DTV converter boxes.  The government is distributing coupons to help with the cost of these DVT converter boxes.  The process of applying for one of these government issued coupons is very simple.  You can visit the website dtv2009.gov.  Once there just follow the instructions on the site and you will be on your way to receiving your coupon.  Each household is able to apply for two coupons.  The cost of each DVT converter box is expected to be between $40 to $70 dollars. 

How to Tell if I Have an Analog or Digital Television?

There are several ways to find out if your television is digital or analog.  If you still have the manual to the television set, the information will be in the manual.  Also, you can visit the manufactures website.  When you get to the website, look for the model number of your television.  This information should tell you if you television is digital or analog.

Will Any Television Stations Remain Analog after the Switch?

All of the larger television stations will no longer be available on analog after the deadline.  The low-power stations as well as translator stations are not required to meet the February 17th deadline.  Currently there is no deadline for these stations to become digital.  Under the current plan, these stations will remain analog broadcasting after the February deadline.  The stations are eligible for a federal assistance program that will take place sometime between October 2008 and September 2009.

What is Multicasting? 

Multicasting will give viewers access to multiple local broadcast channels.  A single station will now be able to provide a number of channels free and on air to its viewers.  Each program channel is known as a multicast.  This technology is already in place in some of the larger areas of the world.

When the digital conversion takes place be prepared.  Take the time now to determine if you are one of the many people that require a digital converter box.  If so, request your government coupon so there is no delay in your television reception.