Apsattv
02-01-2008, 01:21 AM
From http://recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071229/BIZ/712290313
US starts conversion to all-digital broadcasting
Analog TV signals will soon go the way of the eight-track cassette and the rotary phone.
On Feb. 17, 2009, the nation will complete its transition to an all-digital broadcast system, and for cable or satellite subscribers, that's not a problem.
"They don't have to do anything," said Brenda Parks, spokeswoman for Time Warner Cable in Middletown. "There are no notices for us to send, nothing for us or them to do."
But if you're still using a roof antenna or rabbit ears with the TV you've had since the '70s, you'll need a digital converter.
The good news is that Uncle Sam will help you pay for it.
Between Jan. 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible for two $40 coupons to be used toward the purchase of up to two digital-to-analog converter boxes.
The boxes, expected to cost between $50 and $70, will be available for purchase in 2008.
Hook the box up to your old set with the rabbit ears, and you'll become part of the digital age.
If it's time for a new TV, buy one with a built-in digital tuner. The Federal Communications Commission ruled that as of March 1, 2007, all new TVs must include digital tuners, but retailers are allowed to sell analog-only devices from existing inventory. Make sure you know what you're getting, or you'll end up with no picture in 2009.
Digital TV offers better picture and sound quality, free from the "snow" that can affect analog transmissions. It also offers expanded programming choices, called multicasting, and interactive capabilities.
Converting to DTV also will free up parts of the broadcast spectrum, allowing them to be used by police and fire departments and wireless services.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration is administering the coupon program.
US starts conversion to all-digital broadcasting
Analog TV signals will soon go the way of the eight-track cassette and the rotary phone.
On Feb. 17, 2009, the nation will complete its transition to an all-digital broadcast system, and for cable or satellite subscribers, that's not a problem.
"They don't have to do anything," said Brenda Parks, spokeswoman for Time Warner Cable in Middletown. "There are no notices for us to send, nothing for us or them to do."
But if you're still using a roof antenna or rabbit ears with the TV you've had since the '70s, you'll need a digital converter.
The good news is that Uncle Sam will help you pay for it.
Between Jan. 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible for two $40 coupons to be used toward the purchase of up to two digital-to-analog converter boxes.
The boxes, expected to cost between $50 and $70, will be available for purchase in 2008.
Hook the box up to your old set with the rabbit ears, and you'll become part of the digital age.
If it's time for a new TV, buy one with a built-in digital tuner. The Federal Communications Commission ruled that as of March 1, 2007, all new TVs must include digital tuners, but retailers are allowed to sell analog-only devices from existing inventory. Make sure you know what you're getting, or you'll end up with no picture in 2009.
Digital TV offers better picture and sound quality, free from the "snow" that can affect analog transmissions. It also offers expanded programming choices, called multicasting, and interactive capabilities.
Converting to DTV also will free up parts of the broadcast spectrum, allowing them to be used by police and fire departments and wireless services.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration is administering the coupon program.