Nov. 10, 2008
100 Days until the Digital Television Conversion - Midnight on Feb. 17, 2009
Today marks 100 days until all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. After the conversion, viewers will have better reception, sound quality and more programming options, and the change will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders and public safety needs.
Analog television sets receiving free TV using an antenna will not work after Feb. 17, 2009. “Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service – meaning you have an antenna or “rabbit ears” in your house; you need to take action now,” said Councilman Tom Simplot, who is a member of the Federal Communications Commission Intergovernmental Advisory Committee.
Consumers have three options:
- Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box, which plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009
- Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service
- Purchase a television with a digital tuner.
For those who select the TV converter box option (meaning you don’t want to sign up for cable or purchase a new TV), the box is a one-time purchase and usually costs between $50 and $70.
Households can obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, to help offset the expense.
Consumers can apply online at dtv2009.gov, by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), or by mailing their application to P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Coupons will be mailed and are good for 90 days from the date they are mailed. Without the converter box, your old TV with antenna won’t work next February.
For more information, call Simplot’s District 4 office at 602-262-7447 or visit dtv2009.gov.
Media Contact:
| Stephanie Ribodal | 602-261-8512 |