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  The Future - DTV/HDTV

    Don't panic: Digital television (DTV) is an entirely new technology that will ultimately replace today’s analog television system. Digital signals are transmitted using computer code – ones and zeroes - which means they are less susceptible to interference and provide a higher quality picture and sound than analog.

    High-definition TV (HDTV) is the best quality DTV. HDTV’s sound and picture quality are many times better than today’s analog TV. DTV also can be standard definition (SD) [good] or enhanced definition (ED) [better].

    Your current TV will not be obsolete at the end of the transition to DTV. Your current TV will work once the DTV transition is complete but you must have a digital set-top converter box to receive broadcast signals or be connected to a cable or satellite service. This converter box, much like your cable box, will allow you to receive a picture, but it won't be able to show high-definition pictures or give you access to other digital services. To experience the full benefits of digital television, you will need a digital television set.

    DTV (including HDTV) is available over-the-air using a standard antenna or via digital cable or satellite. No matter how you receive your TV signal (cable, satellite or over-the-air), you will need DTV equipment (converter box or a digital television) to watch the DTV programming.

    The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the final rule for the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program designed to help consumers continue receiving free, over-the-air television when full-power television stations cease analog broadcasting after February 17, 2009. Starting Jan. 1, 2008, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to two $40 coupons to be used toward the purchase of up to two, digital-to-analog converter boxes, while the initial $990 million allocated for the program is available. The final rule sets forth the framework for the coupon program and provides the following guidance for: consumers, television converter box manufacturers, and retailers regarding eligibility, responsibilities, and certifications.

    For more information on DTV and the forthcoming switch to the technology please visit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website at www.dtv.gov.

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