Broadcast TV will go digital early next year.

How will this affect you and how do you prepare?
Your questions answered!

What is the Digital TV Transition?

In 1996, Congress mandated that all broadcast networks distribute their programming digitally rather than analog, by early 2009. Currently, all broadcast stations are simultaneously broadcasting their programming in analog AND digital. As of February 17, 2009, television stations will begin broadcasting in digital only.

Can I receive digital broadcasts on my current TV?

If you have cable TV service or satellite TV service, you will, most likely, not be affected by the transition. If, on February 17th of next year, you are still receiving free over the air local broadcast programming on your TV with a roof-top antenna or "rabbit ears," the type of TV you own is important.

• If you have a Digital TV (a TV with an internal digital tuner), you can still watch free over-the-air TV after February 17th of next year. It’s possible, but not likely, that you will need a new UHF antenna.
   
• If you have an older Analog TV, to continue receiving your local broadcast stations free you will need to purchase a "Digital-to-analog converter box." Analog-only TVs should continue to work to receive low power, Class A or translator television stations and with cable and satellite TV services, gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players and similar products.

All households are now eligible to receive two $40 coupons toward the purchase of eligible converter boxes from participating retailers. For more information, or to apply for your coupons, go to www.dtv2009.gov or call or 1-888-DTV-2009.
 
How do I know if I have a digital TV?

The information that came with your TV set should state that it contains a digital tuner. Look for words like "Digital Tuner," "DTV," "Digital Receiver," or "HDTV." Also, some Digital TVs have labels or markings right on the set. All TV sets sold after March 1st of last year are required to have a digital tuner, so if your television is less than a year old it should be digital-ready.
 
If you have additional questions about the February 2009 digital broadcast conversion, we recommend visiting www.dtv.gov.com, calling 1-888-DTV-2009, or giving us a call at 319-293-3187.