Digital Television Transition in Indian Country

The Digital Television Transition is going to impact Indian Country
and the FCC wants Indian Country to be prepared!

On February 17, 2009, television will undergo the biggest change since color was introduced in the 1950s. That's the date on which analog television broadcasting will end for full-power TV stations. Most stations are currently broadcasting in two formats - digital and analog. Those of us with digital television sets are already enjoying better sound and picture quality. Those with the older analog sets are still getting programming as we always have. But that will change on February 17, 2009, when the analog signals will stop for full-power stations. After that date, if you get TV broadcasts with an antenna over the air, you will not be able to receive your local stations anymore because they will be broadcasting only digital signals.

That doesn't mean you need to get a new television set. There will be converter boxes to change the digital signal to one that analog sets can receive. Of course, the picture and sound will not be digital quality; however, tests have shown a significant improvement in the quality of the video signal. If you currently receive your programming through a satellite or cable provider, ask your provider what equipment you will need and when. If you get your signal over the air, you will have to get a converter box for your analog set. If you have to buy a converter box the federal government is offering each U.S. household up to two $40 coupons that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes. The "TV Converter Box Coupon Program" is being administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is part of the Department of Commerce. The number of coupons available is limited and applications for coupons must be received by March 31, 2009. (Please note that these coupons will expire 90 days after mailing). Coupons may be requested in one of four ways: