| Q: |
What is the digital
transition? |
| A: |
After
February 17, 2009, all TV stations
must cease analog broadcasting and
transition to exclusively broadcasting
in a digital format, also known at
DTV. WFYI is currently
broadcasting programming in both
analog and digital.
Analog television sets receiving free,
over-the-air programming will
still work after that date, but owners
of these TVs will need to acquire converter
boxes to change digital broadcasts
back into the analog format. Converter
boxes will be available from consumer
electronics retailers at that time. |
| Q: |
What
is analog television? |
| A: |
Analog
television service is the traditional
method of transmitting television signals.
Analog transmission has been the standard
broadcast technology since the inception
of television.
Analog is not as efficient as digital
television: it uses up much more of
the valuable spectrum than digital,
and TV stations can only transmit one
channel of programming with an analog
signal versus up to four or more programs
with a digital signal in the same amount
of spectrum. Analog is also susceptible
to interference and "snow" that
make a picture less clear. |
| Q: |
Why
is this transition happening? |
| A: |
Congress
mandated the conversion to DTV for
two important reasons. First, DTV will
provide higher quality picture and
sound and more programming options
for consumers through multiple broadcast
streams. Second, ceasing analog broadcasting
will free up a wide range of frequencies
so they can be used for public safety
such as police, fire, and emergency
rescue communications, as well as commercial
uses. |
| Q: |
Will
I be able to continue to use my current
television? |
| A: |
If
you subscribe to cable or satellite,
your access to broadcast channels should
not change. However, if you currently
rely on over-the-air signals via an
analog television and an antenna ("rabbit
ears"), you will need to act to
continue to receive television. You
must either:
- Purchase a low-cost converter box to use with your existing analog television
- Purchase a digital television that can receive DTV signals
- Subscribe to cable or satellite
For more information on ensuring you have the equipment needed for the digital transition, please visit the following sites: |
| Q: |
How
can I get a low cost converter box? |
 |
| A: |
In order to help consumers with the digital
transition, the federal government
has created a coupon program that
will significantly reduce the cost
of a set-top box. The coupons will be
redeemable at select retailers.
Visit www.dtv2009.gov for more information.
Consumers may also call a toll-free number, 1-888-388-2009 (1-888-DTV-2009), for an update in English or Spanish. |
| Q: |
What if I do nothing? |
| A: |
If you do not receive your signal via cable or satellite and do not have a television with a built-in digital tuner (or have a set-top converter box), your television will not work after February 17, 2009. |
| For more information on the digital transition |
Digital TV & HDTV from PBS
DTV
Transition
DTVAnswers.com
TV Converter Box Coupon Program
Indiana Broadcasters Association DTV Page |
