The Digital TV Transition

Digital TV Transition Quick Facts:  (English Version 86 kb pdf)   (Creole Version 118 kb pdf).

Currently, many over-the-air stations are broadcasting in both analog and digital TV formats. After February 17, 2009, full-power TV stations will broadcast only in digital.

The digital TV transition will affect those who watch free over-the-air television (through a rooftop antenna or “rabbit ears”). If you watch over-the-air programs on an analog TV, you must take action before February 17, 2009.

Switching to digital provides improved public safety for everyone enabling police, fire, and other public safety departments to communicate more easily with each other during emergencies.  Also, digital TV offers better picture and sound quality as well as more channels and programming choices.

• If all of your TVs are hooked up to cable or satellite, you will continue to receive television broadcasting after the switch. Check with your cable or satellite company to be sure.
• If you have a digital TV, you are ready for the switch. (If your TV is more than 10 years old it probably is not digital. If it is less than 10 years old, ask the manufacturer if your TV is “analog-only.”)
• If you have an analog-only TV with a roof top antenna or “rabbit ears,” you will not be able to watch most TV stations after February 17, 2009 unless you get a “converter box.” 
• Converter boxes receive digital signals and convert them into analog format for display on analog TVs. The converter box attaches to your TV and allows your household to continue receiving free broadcasting.  With the converter box you can get a better picture and more channels. The antenna you have should work with the box.
• You can buy a converter box at a retail store. The boxes will cost $40 to $70.
• Until March 31, 2009 (or while supplies last), households will be eligible to request up to two $40 coupons from the US Government to be used toward the purchase of up to two converter boxes.  (Please note these coupons will expire 90 days after mailing.)

For more information on the digital transition, call 1-888-225-5322 or visit www.dtv.gov.  For information on converters and coupons, call 1-888-388-2009 or visit www.dtv2009.gov.