6 things you need to know about the switch to digital TV

Six things you need to know about the switch

Daniel Vasquez | Consumer columnist

July 7, 2008

Digital TV, or DTV, is almost here. Are you ready?

You could be and have nothing to worry about. But chances are that you or a relative, friend or neighbor will need help. Or you may be among those who have to invest in a special TV converter box.

Fortunately, you have plenty of time for an easy transition from analog to digital TV — if you start planning now. For a limited time, you can purchase a converter box with a government-issued discount coupon and install it easily with a little guidance.

While consumers may be confused about what's happening and, more important, what to do about it, change is already upon our collective doorstep. Or, more accurately, upon our TV screens.

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I could ramble about how the DTV revolution is supposed to deliver clearer pictures, better audio and more programming for all. But most people just want to know what to do and how much it will cost.

So here are my Top 6 Things to Know about DTV:

What's going on?

American television broadcasting hasn't changed much in 60 years, except for the switch from black and white programming to color and the huge growth in channel choices. But that will change in a blink on Feb. 17, the deadline for full-power television stations — including ABC, NBC and CBS — to switch from analog to digital transmissions as required by the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005. Two of the key reasons for the change are to free up public airwaves for better communications among emergency first responders and new telecommunications services.

The bottom line is that you need a digital TV, or a converter box, to receive the broadcasts after February. All TVs sold in the United States since March 1, 2007, have a built-in digital tuner (also called an ATSC tuner).

For consumers, the best news is the federal act that authorized the creation of the TV Converter Box Coupon Program, which is funded by a $19 billion airwaves auction instead of ever-dwindling tax dollars. More on that in a minute.

Do I need a converter box?

It depends. If you subscribe to satellite, digital cable or telephone IPTV, you're receiving a digital signal. You're done.

But if you rely on over-the-air antennas ("rabbit ears"), then you have some work ahead, as will subscribers to nondigital cable service (which means your TV connects to cable via the wall without using a set-top box.

You can replace your old set with a digital tuner set or sign up for cable or satellite or other pay service. Or you can fork out the cash for a converter box. But before you shop around, apply for a coupon.

How much does it cost?

Converters are roughly the look and size of cable set-top boxes and cost between $40 and $75. You can find them at most major electronics stores, including BrandsMart, Radio Shack, Best Buy and Wal-Mart. You'll need one box per TV you want to convert.

The best way to save money is to apply for a government-issued coupon. They're worth $40 each, and every household qualifies for up to two coupons. There are restrictions, however. You can only use one coupon per box, and you must apply for a coupon by March 31, 2009 or before supplies run out. Also, the coupons expire 90 days after receipt in the mail.

To request a coupon, call 888-388-2009 or visit www.dtv2009.gov.

Can I convert myself?

You bet, in four easy steps to boot.