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THE TRANSITION TO DTV (Digital Television)
On February 17, 2009, the nation will complete its move to a new form of broadcast television called DTV. The move to DTV raises a lot of questions, like do I need to buy a new TV. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about the transition.
Will I be affected by the transition to DTV?
That depends on how you currently receive television:
- Connect your TV to a converter box that enables it to receive DTV signals. A box costs $40.00 - $70.00. The government is offering $40.00 coupons to reduce the cost of the boxes. To apply for a coupon call 1.888.DTV.2009 (1.888.388-2009) or visit www.dtv2009.gov;
- Connect your TV to cable, satellite or another pay service; or
- Replace your TV with a new TV that has a built-in digital tuner. Many sets are available starting at $100.00.
If you receive television through a pay service, like cable or satellite, you should check with your service provider. It is unlikely you will be affected by the transition.
If you receive free television over the air with an antenna on a TV that has a built-in digital tuner, you should already be able to receive DTV signals and will not be affected by the transition.(see “How do I know if my TV has a digital tuner?”)
If you receive television over the air with an antenna on a TV that does not have a built-in digital tuner, you have three options to continue receiving TV after February 17, 2009:
Why is the transition to DTV happening?
DTV is a more flexible and efficient broadcast technology than the current technology. DTV provides better picture and sound quality and it frees up space in the air for more channels and for use by public safety officials for emergency-response communications.
How do I know if my TV has a built-in digital tuner?
The best way to determine if your TV has a digital tuner is to consult your owner’s manual. If that is not possible, you may be able to look up information on your TV set on the manufacturer’s Web site. Some TVs with digital tuners have labels containing the words “integrated digital tuner,” “digital receiver,” “digital tuner,” “DTV,” “ATSC,” or “HDTV.” If your set is labeled “digital monitor,” “HDTV monitor,” “digital ready,” or “HDTV ready,” this does not necessarily mean it has a digital tuner.
Is DTV the same as HDTV?
The terms digital television (DTV) and high definition television (HDTV) are often used interchangeably, but they are NOT the same thing. HDTV is the highest quality form of DTV, but not all DTV is high definition. The transition to DTV means all TV will be digital, not that all TV will be high definition.
Can I still get free TV?
You can still receive free television over the air with an antenna as long as your TV either has a digital tuner or it is connected to a converter box.
Will my TV still work?
Yes, however it may need an upgrade. If your TV is connected to cable or satellite, it should be fine. If your TV has a digital tuner, it will be fine. If, however, your TV uses an antenna and does not have a digital tuner, you will need to either purchase a converter box or subscribe to a pay TV service to continue using the same TV set.
What is a TV converter box?
A TV converter box is a set-top device that connects to a traditional analog television set and enables it to receive DTV broadcast signals via an antenna.
How can I get a converter box?
Converter boxes are for sale at local retailers and a list is available at www.dtv2009.gov. If you apply for and receive a government coupon, you will also receive redemption instructions and a list of local retailers, Web retailers and catalogs that accept the coupons.
How much does a converter box cost?
Converter boxes will begin at $40.00. This is a one-time charge with no monthly fee. To offset the cost of the boxes, coupons valued at $40.00 are available upon request from the government. Visit www.dtv2009.gov or call toll-free 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009) to learn more and apply for your coupons.
How do I get a government converter box coupon?
You can request coupons in these ways:
- Apply online at www.dtv2009.gov
- Call 1.888.DTV.2009 (1-888-388-2009) or TTY 1.877.530.2634
- Fax an application to 1.877.DTV.4ME2 (1.877.922.4698)
- Mail an application to P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000
If you chose to mail or fax your request for a coupon, you can request an application form by calling 1.888.DTV.2009. Coupons are available to all U.S. households on a first-come, first-served basis.
How many converter boxes do I need?
One converter box is needed for each TV set without a digital tuner that relies on an antenna to receive a TV signal.
What happens if I watch free TV on an analog set and don’t do anything to prepare for February 17, 2009?
If you get free TV signals over the air and your TV doesn’t have a built-in digital tuner, it will stop receiving television signals.
Can I recycle my old TV?
Yes. For more information about recycling your TV and other electronics, visit www.mygreenelectronics.com.
Where can I go for additional information on the transition to DTV?
You can call the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) or visit these Web sites: www.dtvanswers.com or www.dtv.gov.
Where can I go for additional information on the converter box coupon program?
You can call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009) or visit www.dtv2009.gov www.dtv2009.gov.
What do you think of digital TV and HDTV from PBS?
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