Digital-only TV broadcasting starts Feb. 18, 2009

The switch from analog to digital broadcast television is referred to as the digital TV (DTV) transition. In 1996, the U.S. Congress authorized the distribution of an additional broadcast channel to each broadcast TV station so that they could start a digital broadcast channel while simultaneously continuing their analog broadcast channel. Later, Congress mandated that Feb. 17, 2009 would be the last day for full-power television stations to broadcast in analog. Broadcast stations in all U.S. markets are currently broadcasting in both analog and digital. After Feb. 17, 2009, full-power television stations will broadcast in digital only. Here is some information from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC):

• What to expect
  • If you have a non-digital television and you currently receive your television signal through an antenna, you will not be able to view that signal after Feb.17, 2009.
  
  
• What you can do
  • Your television will still be able to play videos from your DVD player or VCR, and
    
    
  • You can still play video games on your television, or
    
    
  • You can purchase a converter box to be able to convert digital signals to show up on your analog television. Coupons are available at the TV Converter Box Coupon Program ((888) DTV-2009 or (888) 388-2009), worth $40 each, two per household, toward the purchase of a converter.
    
    
  • If you are connected to cable or satellite for your television signal, you should contact your provider but you will likely still get television signals without interruption.

If you decide it is time to get a new television don't just throw your old one out. There are plenty of recycling places around the state. Visit Earth 911, plug in your zip code and get up-to-the-minute locations for electronic drop off sites near you.