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The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

The Nation's Premier Civil and Human Rights Coalition
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights & The Leadership Conference Education Fund
The Nation's Premier Civil and Human Rights Coalition
Digital Television Transition. Get the coupon. Get the right box. Keep your TV.
Digital TV Transition HomeWhat You Can DoFrequently Asked QuestionsOrganizer Toolkit

Who Is Affected by the DTV Transition?

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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 June 12, 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 June 12, 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, or check your TV brand and model.

Will my TV stop working on June 12, 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:

  1. Keep your existing TV and purchase a converter box that will keep it working after June 12, 2009.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 June 12, 2009. The converter box is a one-time purchase and it does not require any monthly fees.