Jan 4, 2009 11:13 am US/Eastern
FCC Chairman Explains Upcoming DTV Transition
MIAMI (CBS) ―
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Feb. 17th is when television stations nationwide must switch from the old method of transmitting TV signals known as analog to digital.
CBS
FCC Chairman Kevin Martin conducted a Saturday town hall-style clinic at Best Buy at Dadeland Station in Miami, explaining the so-called "DTV" transition and offer some helpful tips, reports CBS station WFOR-TV.
Television viewers who use rabbit ears and rooftop antennae to get reception will find their screens static on Feb. 17th, if they don't take certain steps to ensure their sets are capable of receiving a digital signal.
Broadcasters will stop transmitting TV signals in the old, analog format and TVs without set-top converter boxes won't receive programs.
To make sure TVs are ready for the switch, consumers will have to buy a special converter box. They cost between $50 and $70 and plug into the back of the TV.
The government is sending out $40 coupons to people who apply for them. Households can get two coupons each. They must be used within 90 days.
To get the coupons, click on DTV, or call 1-888-388-2009.
Converter boxes are available for sale at electronic and bigbox stores, like Target, Best Buy and Sears.
Most consumers with cable or satellite don't have to worry about it. They've already been getting a digital signal.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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