Digital Television Transition
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the digital television transition?
The digital television (DTV) transition is a change in the way that television signals are transmitted. On February 17, 2009, most television stations will stop sending analog over-the-air signals.
Why is the digital television transition happening?
Congress passed a law that requires television stations to stop broadcasting on analog channels and switch to digital signals. This will free up airspace for other services, including police, fire, and other emergency services.
What is the difference between analog and digital television?
Digital television signals are more efficient than analog signals, and also provide clearer pictures, better sound quality, and more channels and programming options. More than 1,600 local stations are already broadcasting in digital format – and after February 17, 2009 all full power stations will broadcast in a digital-only format.
Does the DTV transition affect all TVs?
It depends on how you currently receive your television signal:
- If you use an antenna (rabbit ears or rooftop) to receive over-the-air analog television signals, you will probably need a converter box to continue using your TV.
- If you have cable or satellite service, you should check with your provider before February 17, 2009 to see how they are handling the transition. You will not need to purchase a converter box through this program.
- If you have a new digital television purchased in the last few years, you already have the ability to receive the digital signal and you do not have to purchase a converter box. Check your owner's manual if you are not sure if your television has a built-in digital tuner.
Will my TV stop working on February 17, 2009?
If you use rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna for over-the-air television signals and your tv is more than a few years old, you will probably need a converter box to continue receiving a television signal. Without cable, satellite, a digital TV set, or a converter box, you won’t get most TV programming.
Do I need to buy a new digital TV?
No. If you currently receive an over-the-air analog signal, you have three options:
- Keep your existing TV and purchase a converter box that will keep it working after February 17, 2009.
- Keep your existing TV and subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay television service. You will not need a converter box if you subscribe to a pay service.
- Purchase a new digital television with a built-in digital tuner. All TVs with a digital tuner are able to receive digital signals broadcast by television stations.
What is a converter box?
A converter box is a small electronic device that plugs into your TV, and, along with your antenna, will keep your TV set working after February 17, 2009. The converter box is a one-time purchase and it does not require any monthly fees.
What is the converter box coupon program?
The government has set up a free coupon program to offset the price of the converter boxes. Every U.S. household can request up to two coupons, each worth $40 towards the purchase of an approved converter box.
How do I get my coupons?
To request coupons for your household, you can:
- Submit your request online at DTV2009.gov
- Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009). Please note that the correct number starts with 888, not 800.
- TTY users should call 1-877-530-2634
- Print and complete the request form on DTV2009.gov and mail or fax it in
Are all consumers eligible for the coupon program?
Yes. Every U.S. household is eligible to receive up to two coupons. Supplies are limited, so request your coupons right away.
When I apply for a coupon, who collects my personal information? Is it secure?
Your information is collected by a government agency, not a private company, and will be used only for the purpose of sending your coupons. Your personal information will not be shared with anyone else, and your name won't be added to any mailing lists.
When will I receive my coupon?
You will receive your coupons in the mail a few weeks after submitting your request, along with information about using your coupons and a list of which converter boxes are eligible to be purchased with the coupons. Coupons expire after 90 days, so review your information packet as soon as you receive it.
If you have already requested your coupons, you can check the status of your request to find out when your coupons will be mailed.
What will the coupon look like?
The coupons will look like a plastic gift card. They are red and include a serial number and an expiration date on the front.
How do I use my coupon?
The coupons work the same way a gift card does. Each coupon will deduct $40 from the price of one converter box, and you will pay the remaining amount of the purchase price. The $40 coupon is a discount, not a rebate, so it will be subtracted from the price of the box at the time of purchase. You will not be required to complete or send in any additional paperwork to receive the discount.
Where can I use my coupon?
When you receive your coupons in the mail, they will be accompanied by a list of local participating stores, and you can also view a full list of participating retailers online at DTV2009.gov. You can also use your coupons to purchase a converter box by phone or online, through certified retailers. There are currently more than 11,000 stores throughout the country where you can redeem your coupon toward the purchase of a converter box.
Do I still need to use my antenna after I get a converter box?
Yes. If you currently use an antenna to receive over-the-air programming, you will need it after you install a converter box.
Which converter box is right for me?
There are more than 100 approved digital converter boxes. Each one is a little different. It’s important that you get the right box for your needs.
For example, people who live in rural areas may need to choose a box with a stronger signal. Some boxes may be better for people who rely on closed captioning or who watch low-power broadcasts.
Some of the channels I watch are "low-power" channels. Do I still need a converter box?
Low-power television stations, which transmit to a small geographic area, are allowed to continue broadcasting an analog signal after February 17, 2009. If you wish to continue watching a low-power analog station after that date, you should buy a converter box with "analog pass-through" capability which will allow you to receive both analog and digital signals.
Of the converter boxes that have been approved for the coupon program, six boxes have analog pass-through capability. Check the list of approved boxes and look for the boxes marked with an asterisk.
Low-power channels include some stations in rural areas, as well as many community-based channels that provide foreign language, religious, and local programming. You can view a list of low-power stations by state to see if any of the channels you watch fall into this category.
Where can I find out more information about the digital television transition?
Here are some other sites with more information about the DTV transition.
- Official DTV Converter Box Coupon Program - Request your coupons, locate a participating retailer, or view a list of eligible converter boxes.
- DTV Answers - An initiative of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB).
- DTV Transition Coalition - A coalition of business, trade and industry groups as well as grassroots and membership organizations that share an interest in a smooth transition .
- DTV Information - From the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
