Is Your Antenna Ready For The Transition?

Despite months upon months of TV, billboard, and even magazine ads, a few million households across America are still not ready for the recent digital TV transition that took place on Friday, June 12, 2009. More than a couple million homes are completely not ready and several million homes have made some changes to their current configuration but not all.

As you may already be aware, you need a digital converter box if you are currently using an antenna to receive TV service on your analog television set. Since the transition involves making the permanent switch from analog broadcasting to all digital broadcasting, all of your major local channels will only transmit their feed through digital means and will cease to transmit analog signals. This digital converter box is attached to your antenna and converts the digital signal it receives and converts it to the analog format that your TV is familiar with.

Assuming, however, that you own a TV that is HD-ready or is equipped with a built-in tuner or receiver for digital transmission, then you don't need a digital converter box because your TV will already recognize the digital format your antenna picks up. If you are unsure about this specification on your TV, then read through the manual or contact the manufacturer.

One important thing you need to keep in mind in both of the aforementioned situations is that you need an antenna that can pick up both the UHF, or ultra high frequency, and VHF, very high frequency, channels. Some antennas only work with one and not both frequencies, so it's important to note which type your antenna will pick up. VHF channels are 2 through 13, and UHF channels are 14 through 51. Digital channels will be broadcast through both frequencies.

Check to see if your current antenna and your current set up works. If all the channels are coming in clearly, then you're okay. You don't need to make any changes to your current configuration, but if you find that some channels are coming in crystal clear while others are not, then you will need to make some changes.

If you need a digital converter box and do not want to buy one at full price, then you need to apply for a converter box voucher by July 31. Each household is eligible to receive up to two coupons valued at $40. Vouchers are being distributed on a first-come, first-served basis so make sure you submit your application as soon as possible by completing the online form or by printing out the form and mailing it in.