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Published September 25, 2008

Confused About Digital TV?

I have had several people ask me about what is involved in getting prepared for the change over from analog to digital TV in February, 2009. I know some of the answers but not all. This morning I got on the web and did a little snooping around, mainly on the FCC's website (www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/digitaltv.html).

Basically, if you are receiving your TV service by satellite or cable you are already set up to receive digital TV. If your TV is a newer set and has digital technology built into it, you're ready. If, however, you are getting your TV service from free broadcast stations using a roof top antenna or rabbit ears (old style technology) and/or your TV was not made to handle digital signals you'll have to purchase a new digital TV acquire one of the many TV analog to digital converter boxes that are coming onto the market. The government will help pay for the cost of this converter (but not the cost of a new TV).

Regarding your current antenna and whether you'll need to replace it. If your present aerial was designed to receive both VHF and UHF signals (channels 14 and above) it should work as is. But, if you antenna is was only designed to receive VHF signals (channels 2-13) you'll probably find it necessary to purchase a new one.

Complete details may be found at the above FCC link.

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