Many of you may have heard about DTV – Digital Television Broadcasting – but may not understand exactly what it may mean for you and your family. On February 17, 2009, the old analog broadcasting standard will be replaced by DTV.  DTV is a new more efficient way to broadcast television while also freeing up public airwaves for other services. The DTV transition enables TV stations to provide dramatically clearer pictures and better sound quality, offer more programming choices, interactive capabilities and data services such as enhanced closed captioning.

The DTV transition will affect individuals who currently receive free over-the-air television signals through antennas (rabbit ears) on TV sets that are equipped with analog tuners. If your current TV cannot receive over-the-air digital broadcast signals you will need a device that will convert the new digital signals. If you are currently receiving a signal via cable, satellite or telephone company you will likely not have to do anything to keep receiving television programming. To be sure, please check with your service provider.

[Note: To check if the TV can receive over-the-air digital broadcast signals look at the owner’s manual, look on the set for an indication that is has a built-in Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) turner, or go to the manufacturer’s Web site and check the capabilities of the set by manufacturer model number.]

Individuals can receive DTV by:

Continuing to use their analog TV set in conjunction with cable, satellite or a telephone (fiber optic) company service provider which will provide for the conversion of digital signals.

Purchasing a Digital TV set.

Purchasing a DTV converter box, for each television, estimated to cost $50 – 75 (eligible for $40 coupon program).

Purchasing a converter with enhanced features, such as one with a DVD recorder. However converters with enhanced features are not eligible for the Coupon Program.

All households are now eligible to apply for and receive two $40 coupons, each of which many be used to purchase a converter box. The National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA), a federal government agency, is in charge of the Digital-to Analog Converter Box Coupon Program. You may request a DTV converter box coupon and a list of local retailers in the area that sell converter boxes by contacting the NTIA. To learn more about the transition or the Coupon Program and how to apply for coupons, go to the NTIA website at www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888-388-2009.

For additional information about the DTV Transition please visit the Federal Communications Commission’s website http://www.dtv.gov/ or call 1-888-225-5322.