You may know that full-power television stations in the US are required to stop using the old method of transmitting TV signals and start broadcasting exclusively in a digital format on February 17, 2009, but do you know what you have to do to switch?
If you use an antenna to watch free, over-the-air television on an analog TV set (and don't subscribe to a pay TV service) then you will be affected by the transition. If you pay for TV services, such as cable or satellite, then you will not need to upgrade. For a better look at the rules and a guide to figuring out if you need to switch, read more.
| Type of TV You Have | What You Have to Do to Switch |
|---|---|
| Antenna on Analog TV | If you watch free broadcast television using an antenna on a TV set that has an analog tuner – and don't subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay TV service – you will be affected by the transition. You can upgrade to DTV by taking one of three steps:
|
| Antenna on Digital TV | If your TV set has a built-in digital tuner, then you will continue to receive free programming after the transition. |
| Cable Television | If all of your TV sets are connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service, you should not be affected by the transition. But any sets not connected to a pay TV service will need to be upgraded before the transition. |
| Satellite Service | If all of your TV sets are connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service should not be affected by the transition. But any sets not connected to a pay TV service will need to be upgraded.
|
For further details, visit DTV Answers.
Pieces
Max Mara
Decleor
I bought a new TV instead of a converter box.
1It feels strange saying goodbye to rabbit ears
2Looks like my grandma will need to update
That photo is hilarious!
3I bought one of those digital tuners but I can't get a signal. I don't have an antenna on the roof, don't have enough cable in the house to run anything upstairs, can't afford more cable or satellite, and live too far out to ever be able to pick any signal. Looks like I'm screwed.
4I'm with xjackiex. I have a HDTV and a HD antenna, but I can't get a smooth feed. It is a pain in the neck — I think this transition is going to be a big mess for a lot of people, especially those in rural areas.
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