No, the sky isn't falling.
But if you haven't bought a TV set recently and you receive your television signal over-the-air only (with perhaps a little help from "rabbit ears" or a rooftop antenna), you might think the sky has fallen one year from now when your TV stops working.
Why?
Because older TVs receive what are called "analog" signals, and the federal government has mandated that all full-power TV stations stop transmitting analog signals on February 17, 2009. Forever.
"What? Did you say 'no TV'?"
Not quite. Most Rhode Island PBS viewers will not notice the difference, because they already subscribe to digital cable or satellite services. However, if you receive over-the-air signals and watch on an older TV set, you will be affected by the transition and will need to take action to continue receiving television service.
All public television channels, including digital channels, will continue to be available free of charge to all Americans. But you must have a way to receive the digital signal.
Will I be able to continue to use my current television?
Sure, but not without some changes.
Rhode Island PBS is not here to sell new televisions, or to advocate for subscription television services. We are here to provide you with basic information and point you to resources to help you make the best decision for you and your family.
If you subscribe to cable or satellite, chances are very good your access to broadcast channels will not change. Please check your billing statements or contact your television service provider to be sure the set top box and other equipment in your home meets the digital television standard.
The conversion
will impact you if you currently rely on over-the-air signals on an analog
television and a "rabbit ears" or rooftop antenna.
If you currently depend on over-the-air analog signal for television, you have these options:
Any of these options will ensure that over-the-air television consumers will continue to receive programming. You can also buy a converter with enhanced features, such as one with a DVD recorder. Please note that converters with enhanced features are not eligible for the Coupon Program.
Whatever you decide, you have until February 17, 2009, to prepare for the digital transition. After that date, you will no longer be able to view your over-the-air broadcasts on your analog TV.
What if I do nothing?
your analog television will not work after February 17, 2009.
*How can I get a low-cost converter box?
In order to help consumers with the digital transition mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the federal government has created a coupon program that will reduce the cost of a set-top converter box. The coupons (limited to two per household, and available in limited supply) are valued at $40 each, and will be redeemable at select retailers.
To learn more about the coupon program, including how and when to request and redeem your coupons, please click here, or visit Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program. Consumers may also call a toll-free number, 1-888-388-2009 (1-888-DTV-2009). You can also download the fact sheet from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration:
What
is the difference between analog and digital television?
Analog
television service is the traditional method of transmitting television signals.
Analog transmission has been the standard broadcast technology since the inception
of television.
More...
With the new technologies emerging so fast and seemingly at the same time, some confusion persists about the difference between DTV (digital television) and HDTV (High-Definition Television). The terms and technologies are not interchangeable. More...
For more information on the digital transition