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Digital TV Transition

What You Should Know About Digital Television


******BEFORE YOU CALL THE CBS 2 DTV HOTLINE******

If you have a converter box or digital TV and still cannot see CBS 2, please try the following steps

1. Disconnect the antenna wire from the back of your converter box.
2. From the "menu" button on your converter box or digital TV remote control rescan the channels.
3. Disconnect the power cord of your converter box from the AC outlet. Wait 5 minutes.
4. Hook it all back up.
5. Do another rescan.

If you are still not seeing CBS2 you can call our hotline at 312-899-2800 during normal business hours.


By law, television stations nationwide must switch from the old method of transmitting TV signals known as analog to digital television (DTV) on June 12, 2009. DTV is a new type of broadcasting technology that delivers movie-quality pictures and sound, more channels and even high definition television (HDTV) to consumers with HD television sets.

While the benefits of DTV are remarkable, millions of households risk losing television reception unless they take the easy steps to receive a digital signal. The CBS Television Stations Group and the National Association of Broadcasters will assist you throughout the entire transition process.

How do I get digital TV?

If you currently receive free over-the-air television programming on a television set, you will need a DTV converter box to continue to receive television service after Friday, June 12, 2009. DTV converter boxes are available for purchase from retailers or online. To help consumers cover the cost of the converter box, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is issuing up to two converter box coupons valued at $40 each to households. Find out where to obtain a DTV converter box by visiting www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx.

 I have set up a converter box, what do I need to do on Friday, June 12, 2009 after 12:00 p.m.?

Even those who already have converted to digital television with converter boxes must RESCAN their televisions. Again if you receive digital TV via antennas, you must RESCAN your sets AFTER 12:00p.m. FRIDAY.

How do I rescan?

To rescan, use the remote control device and go into the setup mode.The remote control devices on the converter boxes have a button labeled set up or menu. Press that button to access the set up menu. Use the directional arrow buttons on your remote control to scroll to the option

that allows you to perform a channel scan or auto program.  The channel scan will search for digital channels that are available in this area.

What if I rescan and still don't get CBS 2?

You should try the rescan process a few more times. If you are still having trouble, you can call 312 899 2800. You can also email us as wbbm-tvconverterbox@cbs.com

What does a converter box do?

A converter box will allow you to receive a picture but it won't be able to show you high definition pictures or give you access to other digital services.  Find out where to obtain a DTV converter box by visiting www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx. You may apply for a coupon by visiting

www.dtv2009.gov/ApplyCoupon.aspx.

How do I connect my antenna, converter box and TV?

The cable from the antenna needs to go into the antenna input or RF on the back of the converter box. The antenna output or RF out on the converter box gets connected to the antenna input on the TV. Tune your TV to channel 3. You should see a set up menu displayed on your TV screen. If you do not,tune your TV to channel 4. If you still do not see a set up menu, recheck your connections. If you have a VCR connected to the TV, click here for more set up details.

Can somebody help me install my converter box?

The FCC is providing contractors who will install converter boxes and help with set-up, rescanning etc. Consumers may contact Best Buy's DTV Hotline at 1-877-BBY-DTV9 or visit www.dtv.gov for more information. You can also call the FCC hotline at 1-888-CALL-FCC or email dtvinfo@fcc.gov

Do I need a special antenna to receive digital television over-the-air?

With a good indoor or outdoor antenna, you will maximize your DTV reception. In general, dependable reception of DTV will require the same type of antenna that currently works to provide good quality reception of analog TV signals. For help choosing an antenna in order to receive your

free, local broadcast TV channels, visit www.antennaweb.org.



WBBM FCC Reports on DTV Education


Dig Deeper at cbs2chicago.com

 A digital to analog converter box can be used to allow an older television to recieve new, digital TV signals

DTV 101

In this CBS 2 special, Ed Curran explains the benefits you'll receive from Digital TV, how you'll know if you are affected by the changeover on Feb. 17, 2009, or not, and how you can get a DTV converter box and hook it up:
 VIDEO: A DTV Primer: The Technology
 VIDEO: Your TV Reception Options
 VIDEO: DTV Converters
 VIDEO: More Information


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Get Ready For Digital Television

A TV revolution is coming, and as CBS 2's Ed Curran reports, you may need some new equipment when the plug gets pulled on old-fashioned TV and everyone makes the switch to digital.
  VIDEO: How To Get The Best Picture When TV Goes Digital
Digital TV: FCC Offers Coupon For DTV Converter Box
Digital TV: Frequently Asked Questions
Digital TV: 5 Important Facts


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Tech Blog

Ed Curran's Tech Blog unveils the hottest consumer electronic trends and the newest gadgets on the market.

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