Does anyone have any knowledge about the analog to digital TV switch happening on 2-09?

Question

I have just been made aware that the gov. is making a switch on all analog TV's to digital on 2-09 so people will need converters. Does anyone have any knowledge of where to get the converters and how much they will cost and if they are hard to hook-up?

Answer 1

(This answer assumes that you are located in the US)

Converters for over the air TVs are available now but most people are waiting for a government coupon program that will let each household buy a couple of them for about $20 each. The program starts on 1/1/08 but they aren't going to start sending the coupons out until 2/08. Most analog TV broadcasts will end on 2/17/09.

"Best Buy, Circuit City, Kmart, RadioShack, Sam's Club, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart -- have been certified to participate in the TV Converter Box Coupon Program along with more than 100 other retailers" (From last link)

If you currently get good TV reception, especially on analog channels 14-69 (UHF), then you should be able to use your current antenna.

The converter hooks up between your TV antenna and TV and includes a new remote control. Very simple.

Satellite TV signals are already digital; there is a converter for them built into the receiver. If your satellite receiver has an analog tuner to pick up local broadcasts, you would need to either an over the air converter or replace your satellite receiver with one that includes a digital (ATSC) tuner.

Cable companies usually supply whatever converters are needed for their particular system.

Answer 2

They have extended the time because of the problem with the coupons. They've been sending out all these coupons, but there aren't enough boxes to redeem the coupons for... or some such problem. I do not need a box... I have satellite. There are actually relatively few people who will be need the boxes. Then, out of those, only a small number cannot afford the boxes. So the problem isn't as big as you may think it is. Then, there are also parts of the country which are actually NOT converting in Feb 2009. These stations have 2 years to change out their old ANALOG sending towers for DIGITAL sending towers... and these towers are VERY expensive, not to mention in REMOTE places (Wyoming isn't exactly metropolitan!). Therefore, the FCC is giving these areas an exended time to make the change-over. (read this in a local newspaper) Have a Senior day.

Answer 3

Start saving Ur money now and in 2009 buy a digital TV.