TV’s digital facelift

Lomita-Harbor Connection

Does your TV use a rooftop antenna or “rabbit ears”?  If so, you have a simple – but important – errand to run.

Beginning on February 17, 2009, TV broadcast signals will switch from analog to digital, and you will need a special converter box to get reception.  The change is a result of a decision by Congress after 9/11 to free portions of radio spectrum for wireless and public safety communications networks.  Broadcasters will vacate old, analog frequencies and begin digital transmission, which produce noticeably better picture and sound quality.  In theory, everybody wins.  

But your TV won’t automatically adjust to digital television (DTV).  If you have a new TV with a digital tuner or you use satellite or cable, you’re good to go.  But TV sets receiving signals via antennae or sets more than 10 years old will stop working if not equipped with a converter box.  Converter boxes cost about $50 each and you need one for each TV set you own.  The federal government will subsidize up to two boxes through its TV Converter Box Coupon Program (coupons are worth $40 each).  Getting coupons is easy.  Follow these simple steps to avoid missing your favorite TV show: 

1. Obtain converter box coupons (up to 2):
a. If you have access to the internet, visit www.dtv2009.gov.  Download the form, fill it out, and mail it to: TV Converter Box Coupon Program, PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000.  You can also fax the completed form to 1-888-388-4632.  Coupons will be sent to you by regular mail.
b. If you don’t have access to the internet, call 1-888-388-2009 to have a coupon form mailed to you.

2. Purchase and install your converter box:
a. Visit a converter box dealer.  There are more than 20 locations in my district alone.  Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Radio Shack, Circuit City, Fry’s, and K-Mart -- located in Torrance, El Segundo, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Venice, Harbor City and West LA -- are the primary vendors.  For additional locations visit www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888-388-2009.  Bring your coupons!     
b. Follow instructions for easy installation. 

You’re done!  To avoid the last-minute scramble for converter boxes, you should run this errand soon.  February 17, 2009 is rapidly approaching.  Make the DTV transition a smooth one – beat the rush!

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