DTV Transition is coming!

In a few days Feb 17 2009 to be exact, all television broadcasting network in the US will be transmitting digitally, which was mandated by the US Congress. The analog frequencies will then free up and can be utilize for public safety communications to use (such as police, fire and emergency rescue). If you are still using those rabbit antenna’s I suggest you hurry up and get a converter.

People who are technologically challenge this is not the end of the world. These transition will be better. It will allow broadcasting companies to improve the picture and sound qualities of your favorite shows. Better yet, provide you with more channels (programmings) for you to enjoy.

Sadly, I heard on the news a couple of weeks ago that there are major cable companies who are misleading some of the consumers. To those who are not aware, it is not a must for you to get any services from any cable companies.

Here are some information I got from the FCC website,

What Do I Need To Do To Be Ready For The DTV Transition?

What you need to do depends on the source of your television programming, whether you receive programming over-the-air or from a paid provider such as a cable or satellite TV company.

How Do I Receive Digital Broadcasts If I Don’t Subscribe To Cable Or Satellite?

If you receive only free over-the-air television programming, the type of TV you own, either a digital TV or an analog TV, is very important. Consumers who receive only free over-the-air television may view digital programming through a TV set with a built-in digital tuner (integrated DTV) or a digital-ready monitor with a separate digital tuner set-top box. (Both of these digital television types are referred to as a DTV). The only additional equipment required to view over-the-air digital programming with a DTV is a regular antenna, either on your roof or a smaller version on your TV such as “rabbit ears.”

If you have an analog television, you will have to purchase a digital-to-analog set-top converter box to attach to your TV set to be able to view over-the-air digital programming (see “What About My Analog TV?” below).

What About My Analog TV? Will It Still Work?

After February 17, 2009, you will be able to receive and view over-the-air digital programming with an analog TV only by purchasing a digital-to-analog set-top converter box. Between January 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be able to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the future purchase of eligible digital-to-analog converter boxes. Eligible converter boxes are for the conversion of over-the-air digital television signals, and therefore are not intended for analog TVs connected to a paid provider such as cable or satellite TV service.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is administering the coupon program. (Please note that these coupons will expire 90 days after mailing). For more information, visit the NTIA website at www.dtv2009.gov. The Commission’s DTV website, www.dtv.gov, also provides information for consumers on the upcoming digital-to-analog converter box coupon program.

If you need further information, you may visit FCC site if you click here.