If you're looking for information on HDTV, please visit our Hi Def page!
Digital television (DTV) presents a clearer picture, CD-quality audio
and its efficient technology allows for broadcasters to send out
multiple signals on one channel, also known as multicasting.
Not only is DTV a better viewing experience, but on February 17, 2009, by law, broadcast stations in the United States will only be broadcasting in digital. The current analog signals will be shut off to broadcasters and redistributed for other uses, such as public safety.
Simply put, if you watch television "over-the-air" or using an antenna, you'll need to make some adjustments to continue seeing your favorite television channels after February 17, 2009. Viewers who subscribe to cable or a satellite service will continue to get these channels. However, to enhance viewing capabilities and to get the full benefits of digital television, cable and satellite subscribers may need to make some changes as well.
Antenna or over-the-air viewers - If you have a newer television, it may be capable of receiving the digital signal. All TVs made after March 1, 2007, by law, must have a digital tuner. Note that TV's made before March 1, 2007 may be sold well after that date. If you aren't sure if your TV has a digital tuner, check your manual or with your set's manufacturer.
If your television isn't digital ready, you will need to
purchase a set-top converter box which will take the broadcast DTV
signals and make them work on your current television.
Cable or satellite subscribers - Your television should continue to work as usual.
Frequently Asked Questions
By early 2008, set-top converter boxes will be available for purchase at electronics retailers. The cost of the box is expected to range from $50-70.
Your household may be able to obtain up to two coupons worth $40 each toward the purchase of converter boxes. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has responsibility for administering the coupon program, and will issue rules regarding the coupons in the future. Additional information can be found at https://www.dtv2009.gov/.
Consumers who wish to retain their analog television sets may also switch to a cable, satellite or telecommunications service provider.
This what you see "over-the-air" or with an antenna today. This technology was developed in the 1940s and 1950s. It's the "free" television broadcast you would see if you plugged in any TV and flipped through the channels. These broadcast signals do not require cable or satellite service, but depending upon where you live, these services may enhance your viewing capabilities. By law, all analog television transmissions will cease once the digital conversion is complete on February 17, 2009.
Analog TVs will continue to work with cable, satellite, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders, video games consoles and other devices for many years.
Digital television (DTV)
DTV is modern technology which
offers a dramatically clearer picture, improved sound and the
capability for broadcasters to air programs in high definition and send
out multiple signals, also known as multicasting, through sub-channels.
After February 17, 2009 this will be the only "free" television broadcast that's available. To receive the DTV signal, televisions will need to be digital-capable or have a set-top box converter.
High Definition Television (HD, HDTV or Hi-Def)
In addition
to a digital transmission, some programs will also be available in high
definition. The Hi-Def programs will have a larger picture like in a
movie theater, the best available picture resolution, clarity and
color. Hi-Def programs also have Dolby theatre surround-sound
capabilities.
To watch programs in Hi-Def you will need:
1. A television
equipped to display pictures in Hi-Def. The Hi-Def ready television
screens are wider than the traditional television screen.
2. An antenna that can receive digital, Hi-Def signals over the air. Or, cable/satellite Hi-Def service.
1. Purchase a new television set with a built in digital tuner.
2.Purchase a digital-to-analog converter box that plugs into an existing television. The boxes, which are expected to cost between $50 - 70 will be available for purchase in 2008*.
*Beginning on January 1, 2008, U.S. households can request up to two
coupons valued at $40 each. Each coupon can go toward the purchase of a
single set-top converter box that will allow you to continue watching
free "over-the-air" television on an analog set.
3. Subscribe to a cable, satellite or telecommunications service
provider if all desired local broadcast stations are carried by that
service.
Any of these steps will ensure that you will still be able to receive "over-the-air" programming after February 17, 2009.
Will I need a special antenna to receive DTV over the air?
For specific information on using an antenna to receive local television broadcast channels visit www.antennaweb.org.
For example, your favorite station is channel 61. This exists on a digital tuner at 61.1, but it may have another program on 61.2, or 61.3, etc.
Over time, more and more multicast channels may be added. Please check this site for updates.
Why are we switching to digital television?
Broadcast airwaves have a limited amount of space. Both broadcast and wireless services depend on the use of these airwaves.
Transitioning to digital television technology is much more efficient than the current analog technology. It will allow the broadcast of more program content using less of the broadcast spectrum. This will free up the airwaves for public safety and other new and innovative services for American consumers.
Find out more about the DTV transition at dtv.gov and dtvtransition.org
For a Converter Box coupon, visit dtv2009.gov
Check out these digital television transition resources:
