What is digital television (DTV)?
DTV is an innovative new method in broadcasting that uses the same data bits as a computer and sends and receives moving images and sound over-the-air. DTV allows broadcasters to provide higher quality video and audio as well as a wider variety of programs. Furthermore, for those with HDTV, DTV provides high-definition picture and an improved closed captioning service, among other interactive functions and data services.

Why the transition?
According to the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 passed by Congress, all local TV stations must stop broadcasting in analog and implement the digital format by June 12, 2009.

What are the benefits of DTV?
DTV will allow for channels that are capable of a variety of new services, proving to be more efficient than what we’ve known. DTV will provide free, over-the-air high definition television (HDTV), which means cleaner images and sound as well as more diverse programs, to those with high definition TVs. Moreover, a wider range of services will be made available by these channels at no charge.

Who is affected by the transition?
Those viewing local channels with an analog tuner and an antenna and who do not subscribe to cable, satellite or a service provided by a telephone company will be affected. At least 19.6 million homes currently watch local channels without any costs, and a minimum of 70 million television sets will be rendered useless come June 12, 2009 if they are not properly upgraded.

How does one upgrade to DTV?

Prior to June 12, 2009, the following three methods are available to upgrade to DTV.

1. DTV receiver: Purchase a digital receiver that you can connect to the analog TV set you currently own. Through this receiver, you can continue to access local channels at no cost. It costs between $40-70 and has been available for purchase since early 2008. The federal government is currently handing out two $40 coupons for each household that requests them. (Detailed information provided below.)
2. TV set with a digital tuner: Purchase a new television set with a digital or ATSC(Advanced Television Systems Committee) tuner (costs starting from below $100). All TVs that include a digital tuner can access the digital signals sent out by broadcasters and can enjoy local channels at no extra costs.
3. Paid subscription to cable or satellite: If your local cable, satellite or phone company offers the channels you want, subscribe and pay for the service. You will be able to continue using your analog TV to access digital channels as well.

What is the DTV receiver (set-top box)?
The DTV receiver connects the analog TV to an antenna and converts digital signals to analog signals, thereby allowing viewers to watch digital channels on an analog TV. A single receiver costs anywhere between $40 and $70.

How does one receive coupons for the DTV receiver?
In order to help support costs for upgrading to DTV, the federal government is providing rebate coupons. Each household can receive up to two $40 coupons, and they must be used within 90 days of the issued date. For more information or to request coupons, call 1 (888) DTV-2009 or 1 (877) 530-2634(TTY), visit www.DTV2009.gov or mail a request to PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208..

Can analog TV sets still be used?
Yes, they can. Purchasing a new TV with a digital tuner is not your only option. If you wish to continue using your analog TV, you have the following options.
1. Purchase a DTV receiver that will properly convert digital signals to analog signals.
2. Subscribe to a paid service, such as cable, satellite or a service offered by a phone company to receive digital signals.

How does one tell the difference between analog and digital television sets?
In order to verify if a TV can receive digital signals, refer to the TV manual or check the exterior of the set for writing that says the TV comes with an ATSC tuner. Or visit the manufacturer’s website to find the right model and read up on the list of functions.

Do HDTV and DTV mean the same thing?
No, DTV stands for digital television. HDTV stands for high definition television. HDTV refers to the DTV format with the best quality, and it is merely one of many DTV formats. Those with HDTV sets can use an internal antenna to view high quality TV programs at no extra costs.

Does one need a special antenna to access digital signals?
A good-performance internal or external antenna will maximize the reception of digital signals. For reliable reception, you will need a similar antenna to the one that accesses analog signals relatively well in your home.

If you need help choosing an internal antenna that will help you view local channels, please visit www.antennaweb.org.