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REGION: North America

TOPIC: Media

Online NewsHour

Posted: January 30, 2009

The Digital TV Conversion

Forum Introduction

		On Feb. 17, the nation's television broadcast system is scheduled to go all-digital, offering more enhanced images and doing away with older analog signals.

Why are we converting to a system that has a weaker transmission signal?

How is digital supposed to benefit us?

This is especially for hurricane prone areas, how can we receive digital signals when there is no power?

Will there be a mandate for stronger signals from broadcasters?

Will I get better reception with a new TV set with the built in digital connection?

How do I get the digital converter box or the coupons for one?

How can I continue to use my VCR after the big switch?

Why can't these coupons be reissued?

Are there places designated for "used" converter boxes that are no longer needed?

Do you think the effort to make the public aware of the switch has been effective?

Will this impact how PBS produces any of its programming?

Who should I contact first if I have questions about the quality of the new digital transmission of my PBS channel?

I may lose my TV signal. Maybe you could stream content over the Internet?


	P. Heim from Cincinnati, Ohio, asks:

	I receive all of my TV over the air (no cable/dish). I have a VCR that I use to record programs if away from home or watching something else on a different channel. How can I continue to use my VCR after the big switch?

Jonathan Collegio of the National Association of Broadcasters responds:

After hooking up a converter box to the TV set, you may continue using your VCR. Because your VCR's analog tuner will not be able to pick up over-the-air programs for recording after the transition occurs, the VCR must be connected to a DTV converter box to continue receiving broadcast signals.

Click here for a guide on hooking up converter boxes with your VCR, DVR or DVD recorder for recording. If you want to watch and record one program simultaneously, you will only need one converter box. However, if you want to watch one program and record a different channel at the same time, you will need two converter boxes.




		December 14, 2008 NewsHour High-Definition Broadcast FAQ

		December 14, 2008 The NewsHour Switches to High-Definition Broadcasting Format




		PBS: Get Ready for Digital TV

		Federal Communications Commission



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