Digital TV Conversion
All full-power television stations in the United States will transition from using traditional analog technology to using digital signals on February 17, 2009.
The change is required under federal law. A key reason is public safety.
By having access to airwaves now used by analog TV signals, police and fire departments, other first responders, and emergency management agencies throughout the United States will be able to communicate more quickly, with improved coordination and efficiency. Because digital technology uses less broadcast spectrum than analog service, the conversion will also free airwaves for wireless broadband service, additional TV channels and other uses.
If you use an older analog TV to watch over-the-air channels with an antenna, you will need to purchase a digital converter box between now and the transition date. The federal government is offering coupons to help offset the cost. (If you request coupons, be sure to use them by their stated expiration dates.)
An analog TV connected to a cable or satellite service should continue to work without a converter box after February 17, 2009. In addition, analog TVs without converter boxes will still be usable with DVD players, VCRs, game consoles and other home entertainment devices.
Most TV sets built since 2004 include built-in digital tuners. (A TV does not necessarily have to be a “plasma” or “flat-screen” set to be digital.)
While the digital TV conversion is not regulated at the state level, the OUCC encourages consumers to be aware of the transition and any steps they may need to take to prepare. The following links offer additional information:
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Consumer Electronics Retailers Coalition Guide: www.ceretailers.org/CERC%20Consumer%20Guide%20-%202008.pdf
For more information on the Converter Box Coupon Program, consumers can call the FCC toll-free at 1-888-DTV-2009 toll-free.
General comments and questions on the digital TV transition can be e-mailed to the FCC at DTVinfo@fcc.gov.
4-9-08
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