Do you use Rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna to receive TV signals?
If you do, you need to prepare for the nation's switch from broadcasting an analog signal to a digital signal.
Beginning February 17, 2009, all television broadcasting will be done in digital format. That means receiving an analog signal through rabbit ears or a roof top antenna will no longer be possible. There are three ways to transition to digital television (DTV):
Switch to a cable, satellite or telephone company service provider and use the currently owned TV set.
Purchase a new TV set with a built-in digital turner, or
Purchase a DTV converter box that will convert the new digital signal into the old format for an existing analog TV set.
Knowing this will be a costly switch, the federal goverment is offering each household up to two $40 coupons towards the purchase of converter boxes. Most range in price from $50 - 70.
Coupons can be applied for anytime before March 31, 2009
Her are different ways in which you can apply:
Phone.......................1-888-388-2009
TTY..........................1-877-530-2634
Online Form..............www.DTV2009.gov
Mail..........................PO Box 2000 Portland, OR 97208
Fax...........................1-877-388-4632
The coupon will look and work like a plastic gift card and will be delivered with instructions for its use. Additionally, coupon packets will include a list of eligible certified TV converter boxes, a list of retailers where the coupon can be used to purchase the converter box, and frequently asked questions about the coupon. The coupon will expire in 90 days and cannot be reissued.
You may be wondering if there are any benefits of switching from an analog signal to DTV and the answer is yes. DTV uses technology much like that of a computer as it transmits pictures using data bits. It enables TV stations to provide clearer pictures and better sound quality and offers multiple program choices, interactive capabilities and services such as enhanced closed caption viewing.
Additionally, using DTV is a more efficient way to broadcast and it frees up the airwaves for other services. It also provides more channels and free over-the air high--definition television for those who have HD television sets.