Converting to Digital TV: All You Need to Know

If you are one of the millions of Americans who receives television signals via an antenna, rather than through cable or satellite service, you need to prepare for the dawn of the digital age.

Beginning February 17, 2009, all full-power broadcast stations will cease analog broadcasts and only be viewable through a digital tuner.

How do I know if my television has a digital tuner?

If you purchased your television after May 2007, your set is likely equipped with a digital tuner or your provider would have been required to let you know you would need a converter box.

If you are unsure if your set is equipped with a digital tuner, you can check the owner's manual or your manufacturer's Web site. You can also look for an input connection labeled "digital input" or "ATSC."

Nearly all sets made before 1998 are analog with an increasing number available after 2004.

Even if your television was labeled "HD-ready" or "HDTV monitor," it may still need a converter or cable/satellite TV connection to receive the digital signal. Only televisions with an ATSC digital tuner can receive the new broadcast signals without a converter.

I don't have a digital tuner. Do I have to buy a new TV?

No. You do not have to purchase a new TV set to continue to watch television broadcasts, but you will need to buy a digital-to-analog converter box. The new converter boxes are available now at retailers nationwide and run between $50 and $70.

From January 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009, all U.S. households are eligible for a government coupon program to offset $40 of the cost for up to two boxes per household, while supplies last. A list of eligible boxes (https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm) is available from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which manages the program.

The coupons are expected to mail approximately six weeks after you apply and are good for 90 days from the mailing date.

To set up the unit, you will need to connect your antenna to the converter box’s “Antenna In” port via coaxial cable. Then connect the box to the set via the coaxial cable provided with the converter box.

Some companies may also offer higher-end models with digital video recorder (DVR) functions, but these may not be coupon eligible.

You have options with an older television, but now may the right time to upgrade to a new digital television. For the maximum digital experience, there is no substitute.

Chris McGinn, writer for Digital Landing