analog to digital tv conversion
What’s all this talk about television going digital?
At midnight on June 12, 2009, all full-power over-the-air television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. Low power over-the-air TV stations will not be affected by the transition.
What is a “low power over-the-air TV station” and analog pass-through?
They are usually local stations. If you are watching HSN and your TV is not connected to cable or satellite, you are watching HSN on a low power over-the-air TV station.
If you purchase a converter box, make sure you ask for a converter box with an analog pass-through so you can watch both digital and analog programs. Otherwise, you will not be able to continue watching low power over-the-air TV stations.
What is a “full power over-the-air TV station”?
These are TV stations in your community that you can see whether you have cable or not. These typically include local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, or UPN affiliated stations. They also may include local stations that are not affiliated with a national network, like local religious, ethnic, or shopping channels.
Is digital TV better?
Digital broadcasting promises to provide a clearer picture and more programming options, and will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders.
Will this transition affect me?
If you have an analog-only television that doesn't receive cable/satellite/pay TV service, you will need a digital converter box with analog pass-through*. Otherwise, you'll have to buy a digital TV.
Any TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box.
(*Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after June 12, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40 that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.)
If I shop for a new TV, how can I be sure that I am buying digital?
By law, beginning March 1, 2007, all television reception devices (including TVs, VCRs, DVRs, etc.) imported into the U.S. or shipped in interstate commerce must contain a digital tuner. Retailers may continue to sell analog-only devices from existing inventory, but must prominently display on or near the analog-only device a Consumer Alert label stating the device is analog-only.
OK, so tell me again, what are my options?
You can:- Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box with analog pass-through. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009
- OR connect to cable, satellite or other pay service
- OR purchase a television with a digital tuner
» see the HDTV Buying Guide
» read the Chick Geek's blog on digital TV conversion