Clearing up some confusion over the digital television switch
Behind the government's decision to sell the airwaves
9:11 a.m. Wednesday, January 2, 2008
This holiday season may be coming to an end, but the Department of Commerce is just starting to give out gifts to help Americans upgrade to digital television.
Each U.S. household is eligible for up to two $40 coupons for digital-to-analog converter boxes.
All U.S. broadcast TV stations are scheduled to convert to digital signals by February 17, 2009. But people who use analog televisions to get over-the-air broadcasts won't be able to see those digital signals unless they use a converter box.
People needing a coupon for a converter box can call 1-888-388-2009 or you can apply at the government Web site www.ntia.doc.gov.
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If you liked this story and want to know more about about how to tell if your TV set has digital capabilities, read or watch this story.
If you have a digital TV and you get your broadcasts over the air, you're all set for the change already.
And whether you have an analog or a digital TV set, if you get your programming from cable or satellite, you need to contact your provider to find out what adjustments, if any, you need to make.
And why is the government mandating the change?
It will auction off the analog air space currently filled with broadcast signals to wireless broadband companies.
Also, emergency services like firefighters and police will take advantage of the open airwaves.
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