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May 11, 2007 9:50 pm US/Central
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Digital Television: 5 Important Facts
(CBS)
Feb. 17, 2009, is the end of the line for traditional TV. Analog transmission of TV, on the classic channels we've all come to know and love, will go dark for good.
But with digital television, viewers can look forward to more programming options and much improved picture and sound quality. Here are five important facts about digital television and what you can expect from the switch.
What is Digital Television (DTV)?Digital television is a type of broadcasting technology that allows for clearer pictures, better sound quality, and more programming options. Over the digital spectrum, viewers can receive high definition (HDTV) broadcasts with far better resolution, or multiple standard-definition broadcasts at one time. In the future, digital television will also likely support interactive video and data services.
Why are broadcasters converting to digital television?Broadcasters are required to convert to digital television under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, although the deadline for the switch has been pushed back about three years since the law was originally passed. Under another law passed in 2005, broadcast stations must cease using their current analog channels by Feb. 17, 2009. As noted above, broadcasters have options for high-definition programming and multiple channels with digital television that they do not have with analog television.
Will I be affected by the switch?You are most likely to be affected by the switch if you receive television over the air through antennas and analog tuners, and you do not subscribe to a cable, satellite, or telephone company service provider. These TVs will lose their signals altogether if equipment to decode the signals is not purchased. If you have a relatively new TV set with a built in digital tuner, or if you get cable, satellite or phone company TV, you are not likely to lose your signal altogether.
Can I get digital television with my old TV?Your current television is not obsolete, but you will likely need special equipment. If you have a set you watch over the air and does not have a digital tuner built in, a converter box will be required to decode digital signal. The converter box will make digital signals available in analog format. They will be available for purchase early next year for $50 to $70. But to help with the cost, the federal government will offer two converter box coupons valued at $40 each beginning in early 2008, each for the purchase of one converter box. An over-the-air antenna will still be required with the converter box. To learn more, go to
ntia.doc.gov.Why can't we have digital television and keep analog television too?When Congress passed the Telecommunications Act of 1996, they decided it would not be efficient to continue using both systems. Digital technology allows broadcasters to transmit more content using less of the broadcast system. The federal government intends to keep the old analog channels free for public safety communications and new services.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)