Digital Television Transition
TV goes digital Feb. 17, 2009. If you use rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna for over-the-air television signals, your old television may not work.
Only 5 months left until the DTV transition on February 17, 2009, when TV as we've known it will change. Find out three things you can do to get ready for the transition and help others in your community prepare.
While supplies last, the government is offering two free $40 coupons per household to buy converter boxes to keep you connected. Coupons are limited and going fast. Order your coupons now.
Access to communications in the 21st century is not a luxury; it is a necessity. 21 million households rely on analog television — many of which include low-income families, the elderly, minorities and individuals with disabilities. Many of these people are unaware of the switch and will need help making the transition.
Help spread the word to people in your community.
Resources
DTV News
More than 22 million coupons mailed so far! Check out more DTV coupon program statistics from NTIA - updated weekly.
As DTV Transition Nears, Government Appears Unprepared for Spike in Demand for Converter Box Coupons
September 22, 2008
In a report released on September 16, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) predicted an upsurge in requests for converter box coupons as the February deadline for the digital television (DTV) transition nears. According to the report, the agency responsible for processing coupon requests for the boxes, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), "has no specific plans to address an increase in demand."
DTV Day on Capitol Hill Sheds Light on Status of Transition
July 15, 2008
July 8 was "DTV Day" on Capitol Hill, as congressional staff members learned about the challenges posed by the February 17, 2009, digital television (DTV) transition. On that day, most television stations will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to digital.
Check out the Media & Telecommunications section on our website for more resources.