digital TV

On February 17th of 2009 it is expected that most TV stations will quit broadcasting analog TV signals over the air. and older sets will go blank. The changeover to digital does not necessarily mean you have to dump your old analog TV set.

Most TVs made after 1998 have digital tuners but they were not required until last year. So you can still buy analog TVs on the cheap in some stores.

By Feb 2009, you could open your wallet for a new digital TV or, opt to continue to use your analog TV. You may need to purchase a converter box.

The government is giving away 33.5 million $40 coupons that would reduce the price of 19 converter boxes expected to cost $50 to $70 after the discount.

Consumers can try to download a coupon application at dtv2009.gov or call 888-388-2009. Hearing impaired can can call 877-530-2634 or 866-495-1161 for Spanish.

To find out where you can find a vendor to purchase converters visit:

dtv2009.gov/Vendorsearch.aspx to list those stores.