The Analog To Digital TV Switch Is Upon Us

On February 17, the conversion becomes official and the analog waves go blank. Without a converter box, analog TVs will no longer receive signals.

The shift is forced by the U.S. government, and is intended to increase picture quality and expand programming options. All people who use "rabbit ear" antennas or rooftop antennas will require the converter box, while anyone who uses a hard line cable or satellite broadcast do not need to do anything. And most TVs built since 2004 are ready to go for the change. You can check your TV here.

The conversion does not require a high definition TV, although some people think they are required to buy one. Many have advocated for a delay in the switch date, including many in President-Elect Barack Obama's transition team. The concern is audiences won't be ready for the change. Part of the problem is that the U.S. Commerce department created coupons to buffer to cost of the shift, and hit its budget limit of $1.34 billion. Over a million people are still on the waiting list. Most of the people requesting the coupons are elderly or poor, and need the $40 discount on the box (usually $50-$70) to help defray the cost.

The analog airwaves have been auctioned off by the government for emergency services, public safety announcements, and private interests, such as wireless services. With over $2 billion spent on public awareness campaigns, most people know of the impending change.

You can find out everything you need to know about the analog to digital transition at http://www.dtv.gov/.