Prepare now for the switch to digital TV
05/01/2009
The switch to digital broadcasting begins on June 12. This means that when the digital television transition occurs, all analog TV sets using a rooftop antenna or ‘rabbit ears' will lose their TV signal. It is important that television viewers take action now to prepare for the switch on June 12.
One option to prepare for the transition is to get a $40 government coupon to help pay for the cost of a TV converter box. A TV converter box plugs into your analog TV along with your antenna and will keep your analog set working after your local stations stop analog broadcasting. The federal government is offering all U.S. households that apply two $40 coupons. The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is responsible for running the TV Converter Box Coupon Program, recommends the following three steps to prepare for the switch:
- Apply for your $40 coupon today. The coupon can be used toward the purchase of a TV converter box. Coupons are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To apply, go to www.DTV2009.gov or call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009). Deaf or hard of hearing callers may dial 1-877-530-2634 (TTY).
- Buy a converter box as soon as your coupon comes in the mail. Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. A list of retailers will come in the envelope with your coupons.
- Hook-up your converter box to your TV as soon as you get it home. You can start watching digital TV today. For help with set up or using the converter box, call 1-888-CALL-FCC or 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY) or visit www.dtv.gov.