You won't need a new TV when analog dies
Posted
Jan 16 2008, 06:52 PM
by
Karen Datko
Rating:
You might be under the impression that your old non-digital TV will be a worthless hunk o' junk when analog broadcasts join the stone age on Feb. 17, 2009. Not so, says Flexo at Consumerism Commentary. If you have cable or satellite TV service, you likely won't have to do anything at all. If you're among those who still get reception over rabbit ears, you have three options, and one of them is very cheap because of a government coupon program.
Any household can now request two $40 coupons from the U.S. Department of Commerce to purchase digital-to-analog converter boxes from participating retailers. You need the box only if your TV has an analog tuner and if you'll continue to get your TV via an antenna. Flexo says the converters are about $50 each, so the coupons will provide a huge savings. Your other alternatives cost more: buy a new digital TV, or subscribe to satellite or cable. If you have an analog tuner and already pay for TV reception, the Commerce Department suggests you call your cable or satellite company. But, Flexo says, you are probably already equipped for the change, and, if not, the company will take care of it for you.
Another piece of TV misinformation is afoot, Flexo writes: "The biggest misconception I've been exposed to, particularly at work, is the idea that to receive any television at all after Feb. 17, 2009, you will need a high-definition television. This is simply not true. Please get the word out."
