May 23, 2013

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Switching to Flat Screen TVs

The nation's largest electronics chain has pulled all its analog TVs from the shelves. Now, flat panel and high-definition screens are the only types we can buy.

This is in preparation for February of 2009, when broadcasters are going to stop transmitting analog signals.

If we haven't made the switch by then our TVs will still work if we purchase a special converter box.

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Digital Transition Information


http://dtvconverterboxes.blogspot.com

What You Need to Know

TV sets that currently receive programming through cable or satellite are not likely to be affected by the transition to digital.

However, TV sets that rely on "over the air" broadcasting with an antenna (set-top or rooftop) to receive a signal will be affected by the cutoff of analog broadcasts in 2009. You will need to consider one of the following options:
  • Purchase a digital-to-analog converter box that plugs into an existing television. The boxes, which are expected to cost between $50 - 70 will be available for purchase in 2008. Beginning on January 1, 2008, U.S. households can request up to two coupons valued at $40 each. Each coupon can go toward the purchase of a single set-top converter box that will allow you to continue watching FREE "over-the-air" television on an analog set.
  • Subscribe to a cable, satellite or telecommunications service provider if all desired local broadcast stations are carried by that service.
  • Purchase a new television set with a built in digital tuner.
Any of these steps will ensure that "over-the-air" television consumers will continue to receive programming.