People thinking of purchasing a television this holiday season may want to consider whether they will want to watch free, over-the-air programming. On Feb. 17, 2009 all television stations in the U.S. will stop broadcasting in analog and will begin broadcasting digitally.
What this means for consumers is that if they purchase or own a television without digital technology, they will need to obtain a digital converter box to continue to receive free local programming. The federal government, beginning next year, will offer a maximum of two $40 vouchers per U.S. household to be used to purchase converter boxes.
People who subscribe to satellite or cable technology will continue to receive the same programming.
Many televisions come with digital technology. RadioShack on West 11th Street currently only sells digital televisions, said Sales Associate Josh Hughes. He said the store has posted signs about the transition and he’s found many customers aren’t aware of the digital transition.
He advises, “Get something with an HD antenna in it so (consumers) don’t have to bother with it later.”
High definition television is not the same as digital television. Consumers will not need to purchase a high definition television to continue to watch free programming, and instead simply need a built-in digital receiver or a converter box.
The federal government ordered the transition to free up some of the broadcast spectrum to be used for public safety transmissions in the U.S. Digital television will also offer less interference and enhanced picture quality.
The federal government mandated that all television reception devices imported to the U.S. or shipped in interstate commerce contain a digital tuner beginning in March 2007. Retailers may still have pre-existing inventory of analog-only devices, but they must be labeled with a consumer alert.
Consumers with analog technology who receive free, over-the-air programming will need both their antenna (rabbit ears or rooftop antenna) and a converter box.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2008, the government will begin taking requests for the coupon program. To apply for a converter box coupon, call 1-888-388-2009 or visit dtv.gov. The coupons are available on a first come, first serve basis until the program reaches $890 million. Additional funds may be made available after.
Retailers participating in the coupon program will be listed on the dtv.gov Web site.
[email protected]