The DTV Takes Effect, Cable Subscribers Unaffected

In compliance with a 1996 decision by the U.S. Congress, all national broadcast television must switch from analog to digital by June 12, 2009. How will this affect you? The cable industry has compiled a short information sheet about the digital TV (DTV) transition, describing how it will influence your television experience.

First, it is important to note that all cable and satellite television subscribers will be unaffected by the DTV transition.

The DTV transition affects local broadcast stations, such as ABC, CBS and NBC, who currently broadcast television programming over-the-air. If you utlize an antenna to receive local television programming, you may need to acquire a digital-to-analog converter box. If you own a digital television, equipped with an internal digital tuner, you will continue to receive uninterrupted programming over-the-air. Analog television owners must obtain a converter box to receive broadcasting over-the-air.

Converter boxes are available at electronic stores, such as Best Buy and Radio Shack. The government has created the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program to assist consumers with the DTV transition. Administered by the NTIA, the program will provide eligible households with up to two coupons, valued at $40 each. The coupons can be used for qualified converter boxes, sold at participating retailers.

Approximately 400 national TV stations discontinued analog broadcasts at midnight on Tuesday. Although they adhered to suggestions made by the government for the DTV transition, many people are receiving fewer channels. Cable subscribers will enjoy uninterrupted, quality television programming- no action required! For more information on the DTV transition:

• Contact your local cable company to inquire about alternatives to the digital converter box.
• Visit www.dtv.gov, a comprehensive website detailing the DTV transition.
• Call 1-888-CALLFCC