Broadcast Digital Television (DTV) Transition FAQ

What is the broadcast digital television (DTV) transition?

The broadcast digital television (DTV) transition is the government mandated transition requiring that all full-power broadcast TV stations (i.e. ABC, NBC, CBS, PBS, Univision, etc.) stop broadcasting analog signals and begin broadcasting only in digital format starting on February 17, 2009. Early in 2009, Congress set June 13, 2009 as the revised date by which full power television stations must stop broadcasting analog signals and must only broadcast digital, over-the-air signals. Television stations may make the transition to digital transmission before then, and some already have.

Why is the federal government requiring this switch to digital television?

The switch from analog to digital broadcast is a transition that has been mandated by the Federal Government. The government is reclaiming the analog broadcast spectrum. Some of the reclaimed spectrum will be used to enhance communications for emergency service providers such as fire and police departments and allow for more broadband services.

Who will the DTV transition affect?

The DTV transition will impact all consumers who have analog television sets that are not hooked up to a video service provider such as cable or satellite.

What do I need to do to prepare for the end of analog television broadcasting?

• If your television set is connected to cable or another video service provider, there will be no impact and your TV will continue to work.
• If some TVs in your house use a rooftop antenna or “rabbit ears”, you will need to do one of the following:
  1. Buy a digital-to-analog converter for each TV set and connect it to your current TV and antenna ($40 government issued coupons are available by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 or visiting www.dtv2009.gov).
  2. Buy a new digital TV and connect it to an antenna.
  3. Subscribe to your local cable service or another video service provider.

What if all my TV sets aren’t connected to cable or another video service?

If you have additional television sets not connected to cable or another video provider, you will need to do one of the following by June 13, 2009:

1. Buy a digital-to-analog converter for each TV set and connect the converter to your current TV and antenna.
2. Buy a new digital TV and connect it to an antenna.
3. Connect those additional television sets to cable or another video provider.

How do I know if I already have a digital TV?

Many digital television sets have labels that say "Integrated Digital Tuner," "Digital Tuner Built-In," "Digital Receiver," or "Digital Tuner," "DTV," "ATSC," or "HDTV" (High-Definition Television).  If your TV has any of these labels, you do not need a digital-to-analog converter box; however, you may still need an antenna for signal reception. For additional information, please visit www.dtv.gov.

Do all new televisions that are sold include built-in digital tuners?

No, not all new televisions include built-in digital tuners. Some retailers still carry older analog TV sets, but they have to post notices identifying TVs that won't display digital broadcast channels after the digital transition.

If I buy a new television, how can I ensure that it will receive digital signals?

When you are searching for a new television, look for "Digital TV" as part of the television’s description. Less expensive sets say "Standard Definition Digital TV." Your local retailer may by able to provide you with additional information about TVs that receive digital signals.

Will I need a new antenna?

Most likely you will not need a new antenna. Most rooftop antennas will pick up digital television signals. If you only use rabbit ears (antennas), you may or may not be able to pick up the digital signal.

How do I request a digital-to-analog converter box coupon?

The $40 government-issued coupons are available by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 or visiting www.dtv2009.gov. Each household is eligible for a maximum of two coupons. The coupons are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be used toward the purchase of approved converter boxes (a list of approved boxes will be sent to you with the coupon).

How long will it take to receive my coupon?

While you can apply for the converter coupon at any time, delivery may take a few weeks or months. You will be provided an estimated ship date when you apply for your coupons.

How long do I have to use my government issued converter box coupon?

Coupons must be used within 90 days of the issue date.

What if my coupon expires before I use it?

You have 90 days from the coupons issue date to use the coupon. If the coupon expires before you have a chance to use it, you cannot re-apply for another coupon.

Where do I get a digital-to-analog converter box?

The digital-to-analog converters are sold at certified retail stores. Please visit www.dtv2009.gov for additional information about purchasing a digital-to-analog converter.

How much does a digital-to-analog converter cost?

Digital-to-analog converters are priced between $40 and $80.

Is the digital-to-analog converter box easy to install?

In general, you will need to connect the converter to your television set and your antenna. To watch a demonstration or get an explanation on how to set up your converter box visit DTV Demo or Converter Explanation

Do I have to wait until after February 17, 2009 to watch digital television?

No, you do not need to wait until February 17, 2009 or June 13, 2009 as more than 1,600 local stations are broadcasting digital signals today. The Federal Communications Commission's website has more information on digital television, or you can call 1-888-225-5322 (TTY: 1-888-835-5322). 

If I want a new TV, will I have to buy a High-Definition TV (HDTV) to watch digital broadcast television after the transition?

No. The DTV transition is a switch from an analog to a digital signal on any TV set. The transition is not related to high-definition.

Will I be able to use my VCR, DVD player, camcorder, or gaming console with a digital television set?

Yes, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders, and gaming consoles work with both analog and digital television sets.

I currently live in a community along the U.S. border. Will I be able to receive analog television channels from Canadian or Mexican TV stations?

Some consumers living along the U.S. borders with Mexico and Canada currently watch analog television programming broadcast over-the-air by Mexican and Canadian stations. Canadian TV stations will also transition from analog to digital broadcasting, but not until August 2011. Mexico has begun its transition and will complete it in 2022.