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The Downside of Switching to a Digital TV Signal

The digital age is upon us, and whether you're on board or not, the old-timey analog TV signal will be switched off on Feb.

The digital age is upon us, and whether you're on board or not, the old-timey analog TV signal will be switched off on Feb. 17, 2009. This is where I'd tell you to rush out and treat yourself to a new TV (but I think you might get a better price if you wait another week), 'cause that old box with rabbit ears won't do the job come February.

Although the benefits of switching to a digital TV signal far outweigh the drawbacks (including better picture, clearer sound, and more channel options because of more available bandwidth), there is one downside worth mentioning: you may not receive all the analog channels you used to with the new digital signal.

Why? I'll tell you when you read more

Poll

Do You Still Have Analog Cable?

I can't even pinpoint when I switched to digital cable in my life — it just happened naturally (and probably when I moved), like tech evolution.

I can't even pinpoint when I switched to digital cable in my life — it just happened naturally (and probably when I moved), like tech evolution. So of course, like anyone else with digital cable already, I don't have to worry about how I'll be affected by the federally mandated shift from analog to digital cable.

For people who aren't already on digital (or have a newer, digital TV) though, there will be some unpleasant transitions. Converter boxes will run about six bucks per TV set, service installations of said boxes will cost people upwards of $60, and despite the availability in some places of government subsidies to help out, it will most likely be a big inconvenience. So I'm wondering, for cable subscribers, do you still have analog cable?

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