Federal Govt Assistance for Consumers to Convert to Digital TV
After January 15, 2009 all full-power television stations in Hawai`i will broadcast only in digital. In the rest of the United States, the transition to digital TV will take place on February 17, 2009.
Nationwide, more than 20 million households have a television set receiving over-the-air (analog) signals. About 13.5 million of these households rely on over-the-air broadcast to receive their TV programs while another 9 million households have cable and satellite service but also have at least one broadcast-only television set in the house.
Why is the digital transition happening?
Broadcasters are transitioning to digital to provide important benefits to consumers. Because digital broadcasting is more efficient, broadcasters require less of the airwaves to provide a better television viewing experience.
Once the DTV transition is completed, some television channels will be turned over to fire and police departments for emergency communication and others will be auctioned to companies to provide new wireless services.
Who relies on over-the-air TV?
Individuals who on average are more reliant on over-the-air television include:
* Seniors
* The economically disadvantaged
* Rural residents
* Minorities
* People with disabilities.
Federal program offers financial assistance to make the conversion to digital TV
There is a Federal Government financial assistance program designed to help consumers make the digital transition.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is operating the TV Converter Box Coupon Program at the direction of Congress.
Since the program began on January 1, 2008 Hawai`i consumers have applied for 13,787 coupons, but that is a small portion of those who need assistance.
What is the DTV Converter Coupon program?
The DTV Converter Coupon Program is the only program designed to ensure that every household continues to receive television service after the conversion to digital transmission.
For many people, television is more than simply entertainment. For seniors and the homebound, it is a social network and in many cases provides lifeline services.
Recent immigrants use it both for education and as a tool to learn English. All of us use it in weather emergencies to plan for the safety of our families and property.
In emergencies and disasters, television is a national unifier. We want the Hawai`i County community to know that financial assistance is available to make the conversion and maintain your existing television service.
In Hawai`i, January 15, 2009 is when the switchover to digital TV happens
Hawai`i consumers who use “rabbit ears” or a rooftop antenna with an analog television need to take action before January 15, 2009, to continue receiving television broadcasts.
Will my TV work after January 15, 2009?
Analog television sets receiving free TV using an antenna will not work after January 15, 2009. Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service will need to take action before January 15, 2009, to ensure their TV sets continue to work.
What is a TV converter box?
A TV converter box is a new product available in early 2008 that plugs into your analog TV and, along with your antenna, will keep your analog set working after January 15, 2009. A TV converter box is a one-time purchase and is expected to cost between $50 and $70. A TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box from this program.
How do I install a TV converter box?
Converter boxes plug into TV sets, either in the back or front, depending on your TV. You will still need your antenna, which works with the TV converter box.
Each TV converter box will come with installation instructions from the manufacturer. You should be able to install the converter box using the instructions provided by the manufacturer. For specific questions, you should ask your retailer or call the manufacturer’s technical support hotline. A generic “Quick Start Guide” and installation video are available at www.DigitalTips.org .
How does the TV Converter Box Coupon program work?
The Federal Government created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after January 15, 2009.
The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40 that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes. Consumers must complete and submit an application to receive the coupons.
Where Can I Apply for the Coupon?
By phone: 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)
TTY: 1-877-530-2634
Online: www.DTV2009.gov
By mail: DTV-2009, P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000.
Where can I find the information about applying for the TV converter box coupons?
You can visit the website that includes all the materials you will need to inform your members about the transition and how to apply for the coupon. Please visit the partner section at www.DTV2009.gov .
Or for more information, please contact:
Kathie Klass, Ombudsman
Television Converter Coupon Program
National Telecommunications & Information Administration
Department of Commerce
1-(202) 482-4728
KKlass@ntia.doc.gov
For Frequently Asked Questions about the Coupon Program, visit www.DTV2009.gov .
