Are You Ready For The Dtv Transition In June?

In just over a month, what was set to take place back on January 17 will finally happen on June 12, 2009. The much criticized and praised digital television transition will occur at 12 a.m. midnight and those who are not ready for the transition will be waking up to a blank TV screen. This will cover some of the basics that you need to know to ensure that you will continue to receive uninterrupted TV broadcasting when the transition to digital happens.

What is the purpose of the digital television transition?
There are several reasons, and they are all beneficial. First, the transition will free up some of the broadcast spectrum for the police, emergency personnel, and other public safety communications to use. Second, some of the frequencies will be sold to companies that will offer their wireless broadband services to customers. Last, it will improve both the picture and sound so you can watch your favorite shows and programming with better quality.

Who will be affected?
Take a look at how you currently watch TV. Are you a cable or satellite subscriber? If the answer is yes, then you will most likely not have to do anything as the provider will have already made the necessary changes to ensure their customers will not miss a beat of TV. If, however, you are using an antenna, then there are some things you need to look at.

First, take a look at the kind of TV you have. Is it labeled as a HDTV? Does it come installed with a built-in tuner or receiver that is capable of receiving digital signals? If so, then you can continue to use your current antenna without any problems. If, however, your TV was purchased before March 1, 2007, then there is a chance that it does not have the proper hardware to receive digital transmissions because it is an analog set. If so, then you will need a digital converter box.

What is a digital converter box and how do you get it?
The digital converter box is hooked up to your antenna and converts the analog signal to digital. It can be purchased at most, if not all, electronics and major retail stores for about $60.

Alternatively, there is a program called the TV Converter Box Coupon Program. Each household is eligible to receive up to two vouchers in the amount of $40, which can be redeemed at a list of participating retailers. You would only need to pay for the difference since the voucher will not cover the whole price of the converter box.

Vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so if you haven't mailed out the application or filled out the online form, do so now.