What is D.T.V.

Gone are the days of the wire hangers and aluminum foil. For those of us still resisting the " waves of the future", we will be without a choice this February 17, 2009.

D.T.V. ( Digital T.V. Transition). means that all television stations will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and will begin broadcasting only digital. Stations will be allowed to offer improved picture and sound.

A converter box will be needed for consumers who rely on antennas ( including outside antennas and "rabbit ears". ) T.V. sets having only analog tuners will need to obtain separate digital-to-analog boxes to watch over the air T.V.

There is a converter box Coupon Porgram. Between Jan. 1 2008 and March 31, 2009 all households will be eligible to request two coupons. Each are worth $40. These coupons are to be used toward the purchase of up to two digital to analog converter boxes. The N.T.I.A. has the responsibility for the coupons. More information cand be found at www. DVT2009.gov.

For Cable and Satellite T.V. consumers, they may also need new D.T.V. equipment. You should ask your cable/satellite provider what and when you may need such equipment.

For more information on the transition go to the F.C.C. site at www.dtv.gov.