The Transition to Digital TV

On June 12, over the air television broadcasts began transmitting only in digital formats. Analog-only televisions (those that use an antenna) no longer work unless owners do one of three things to ensure that their sets work:

• Buy a TV with a digital tuner.
• Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service.
• Purchase a converter box.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND LOCAL RESOURCES

Comprehensive information about the DTV transition -- including an interactive troubleshooting guide, searchable databases of local resources and technical assistance (including in-home assistance) -- can be found at www.dtv.gov.

The FCC's DTV Hotline -- 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) -- is staffed with approximately 4,000 live agents and operating 24/7 through June 15th (at least).

Here are some tips from the FCC for resolving DTV problems.

TRY YOUR EXISTING ANTENNA FIRST -- In many cases, existing antennas should work but may need to be adjusted once hooked up to the converter box or new DTV set. Consumers should make sure they have an antenna that receives both VHF and UHF signals. In some cases, a new indoor or outdoor antenna may be needed. If there are receiption issues, using the Reception Mapping Tool at www.dtv.gov (enter the address to see which stations are expected to provide a signal to that household).

SCAN FOR CHANNELS -- On June 12th and 13th, consumers should perform a channel scan on their converter box and any digital televisions they have. This should be repeated regularly to ensure they are receiving all available digital channels.

CALL AHEAD BEFORE PURCHASING A CONVERTER BOX -- Consumers should call ahead before shopping for a converter box, and should consider one of the 10 toll-free phone retailers or 29 online retailers. These retailers and a searchable database of local retailers can be found at DTV2009 Vendor Search. Converter boxes can be purchased with or without a coupon.

DTV COUPONS ARE STILL AVAILABLE -- Coupons, each worth $40, are still available to assist consumers with their purchase of a TV converter box. Eligible households can order coupons until July 31, 2009, while supplies last. To expedite delivery, coupons should be ordered either online (www.DTV2009.gov) or by phone (1-888-DTV-2009; 1-888-388-2009). Coupons are delivered via First Class mail and typically arrive 9 business days after the date the order is received.

REPLACEMENT COUPONS -- Consumers whose coupons expired without being redeemed can order replacement coupons through July 31st while supplies last. Orders for replacement coupons are taken in the same channels as initial orders (online, by phone, fax or mail).

HELP YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS, AND NEIGHBORS -- If you are prepared, reach out to family, friends and neighbors. Coupons can be given away; they cannot be bought or sold.

Why is the transition to digital television necessary? Primarily to reclaim portions of the analog spectrum (broadcast channels 52-69, also known as the 700MHZ band) currently occupied by television broadcasters. Digital television uses radio frequency spectrum more efficiently than analog, making space available for other uses, such as emergency communications.