Analog-Digital, DTV - February 17, 2009

DTV day is the day America goes strictly digital. On February 17, 2009 the nation is scheduled to transition from analog to digital television (DTV). Cable and television networks will broadcast shows via digital satellite, only. This means that in terms of watching analog TV, the technology will become extinct, making for a fuzzy television screen, lost reception and an annoyingly persistent buzzing sound.

Evidently, converting to digital is not optional. In fact to ease the switch, the federal government has been coordinating some of the major details. Working with retailers, consumer electronics, cable, broadcast stations as well as local communities, they are trying to make the analog-to-digital TV transition seamless.

More importantly, the move from analog-to-digital is crucial because it will free up much needed airwave space. The change enables first responders, the department of Homeland Security and other disaster agencies to communicate better during dire situations. Not to mention, the analog-to-digital switchover allows for more airwaves, new wireless technologies and unlimited communication possibilities.

The appeal of digital television (DTV) promises crystal lucid video and completely clear audio. Touted for its efficiency to transmit video and data, movie-quality resolution and multicasting capabilities, some consider DTV as momentous as the invention of color television.

The federal government is all about the success of this initiative; so much so, that they are digging into their pockets to compensate for more than 50 percent of these converter boxes. For instance, one of the Department of Commerce's agencies, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration organized the TV Converter Box Coupon Program, which offers a $40 discount toward the price of the converter.

Some 250+ retailers are participating in the nation's converter box coupon program. Of the popular electronics' retailers, Best Buy and Circuit City are accepting the coupons. Read which big box stores redeem digital to analog converter box coupon.

Who is affected and unaffected by the airwave change is subject to the type of television set one watches or if they are a cable subscriber. In other words, TV owners who have an analog television, without any of the bulleted items below, will need a converter box or new TV. However, nothing is needed if you:

-- Pay a provider for television/cable service
-- Have a television with a built-in digital tuner (DTV ready)

For consumers who do not plan on upgrading their TV set, time is of the essence. In the interim, be sure to take advantage of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's analog-digital TV converter box coupon.

To qualify for a coupon, visit the web site National Telecommunications and Information Administration (Households may apply for two coupons).