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Are You Prepared for Digital Television Transition?

June 12, 2009 is the deadline for full power television stations to discontinue analog broadcast & transmit only digital signals. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) extended the original February 17, 2009 transition date to allow more consumers the ability to get prepared. Digital broadcasting promises to provide a clearer picture, more programming options and will free up airwaves for use by public safety communication (such as police, fire departments, and rescue squads). Also, some of the spectrum will be auctioned to companies that will be able to provide consumers with more advanced wireless services (such as wireless broadband).

Consumers have the following options to ensure uninterrupted television service after June 12:

• Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after June 12, 2009.
• Connect to cable, satellite or other pay TV service.
• Purchase a television with a digital tuner.

Any TV (analog or digital) will work if it is connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service. If you use an analog TV and receive broadcasts using an antenna, such as “rabbit ears” or a rooftop antenna, you will need to purchase a converter box.

Manufacturers estimate that digital-to-analog converter boxes will sell from $40 to $70 each . The Federal government permits each U.S. household up to two $40 coupons to help pay for the cost of the converter box. After applying the coupon, participating retailers will charge consumers the remaining balance.

The www.dtv.gov web page is a one stop shop for all things related to digital television including:

• Instruction to obtain a converter box coupon
• Locations of converter box retailers
• Instruction on installing converter boxes
• Tips on fixing reception problems  

Consumers may also call 1-888-388-2009 (voice) or 1-877-530-2634 (TTY) f or more information on the digital-to-analog converter box coupon program.

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