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February 2009 Digital Conversion
You have probably heard of the television changes coming in Feburary 2009. At TCC, we want you to
be fully informed of changes and how they may or may not affect you. Currently, network affiliates are
able to broadcast an analog signal from their towers, which enables people to pick up TV stations using
an antenna or "rabbit ears". As of February 17, 2009, this type of transmission will be going away. These
network affiliates will cease their analog transmissions and broadcast only a digital signal.
How will these changes affect you?
The only way you will be affected is if you use an antenna or rabbit ears to receive channels "over the
air". If you have TCC Cable TV, then you will not be affected. For those of you without TCC Cable TV,
you will either need to have a TV provider, get a TV with a built-in digital tuner OR get a special
digital converter box.
What are these digital converter boxes?
The digital converter boxes are like digital antennas. You would need one for each TV that you want to
pick up "over the air" broadcasts. Each box costs between $40 - $80. They are available at most retailers
that sell TVs. TCC does not have these digital converter boxes. To help cover the cost, you can apply
for coupons through the U.S. Commerce Dept.
What is the coupon program about?
The U.S. Commerce Department is offering up to 2 $40 coupons per household toward the purchase of these
digital converter boxes. You can download the coupon application here or visit
the DTV web site to apply. These coupons can only be used towards
Why is this change happening?
This change from analog to digital broadcasting is being dictated by the federal government for a
couple of reasons:
First, the bandwidth spectrum used by analog broadcasting is going to be deployed to first responders and
local fire and police departments to improve communication and coordination with each other.
Second, digital broadcasts will give you better, sharper pictures and allow local stations to offer
high-definition broadcasts.
I cannot get TCC Cable TV, what do I need to do?
Start with taking an inventory of the TVs in your home that currently use an antenna or rabbit ears
for reception. Then, decide if you want to replace any of them with new TVs (with a digital tuner). Of those
remaining, you will need a digital converter box in order to pick up stations over-the-air. You can
apply for up to 2 coupons per household. Then visit a TV retailer to purchase a digital converter
box for each TV you want to continue using.
How can I tell if my TV is digital already?
Most TVs purchased in the last 3-4 years have a digital tuner in them. Refer to your owner's manual,
call the store you purchased it from or check online with the TV's brand and model number.
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