Oct 20, 2008 5:00 pm US/Pacific
Consumer Report: Digital TV Conversion Preparation
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
In just a few months, television stations nationwide will stop
transmitting analog TV signals and begin broadcasting exclusively in
digital format.
The switch has many viewers confused, so experts from
WCBS-TV in New York City held a forum at St. Francis College in
Brooklyn, N.Y. to provide the public with this much-needed information.
The conversion to digital happens on Feb. 17, 2009.
A digital signal can cram a lot more data into the same space as analog signal uses, delivering more channels with enhanced picture clarity and sound.
However, if you plan to keep your old analog TV and don't subscribe to cable television or satellite, you will need to buy a converter box in order to get the digital signal.
"If you have a cable provider, if you have satellite, you're fine," Luis Flores, a manager at Best Buy, says. "It's only for the customers who have antenna with an analog television."
The converter box will convert the new digital signal so it can be read by your analog television.
If you're not sure whether you have an analog or digital tuner, check the TV manual or call the 1-800 number listed by the manufacturer and ask.
If you do need to buy a digital converter, the government is issuing $40 coupons to be used to purchase certain brands, but they expire, so act quickly.
There are recycling programs for those who choose to discard old analog televisions.
Through those programs, like My Green Electronics, you can learn about disposal options and locate recycling programs near you.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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