Digital TV transition fast approaching

In less than 90 days, we will experience one of the most significant milestones in the history of telecommunications when our nation transitions to digital television (DTV). You need to be certain you are ready for the transition. If you have already purchased a digital converter box, you should make sure it will actually work where you live in Utah.

On Feb. 17, 2009, the federal government is requiring full-power broadcast television stations to stop broadcasting in the old analog format and send out their signals digitally. We will benefit in several ways from the broadcast digital transition. Digital TV provides a superior picture, improved audio and additional channels. The switch will also free up bandwidth that can be used for cutting-edge wireless services and better communications among first responders during emergencies.

As the clock ticks toward the transition, the good news is that almost everyone is at least aware of the DTV transition thanks to outreach efforts by government, community groups and the broadcast, cable and consumer electronics industries.

Several months ago the cable industry launched an extensive consumer education campaign — including TV advertising valued at $200 million — to make sure cable and noncable viewers know about the change.

In Utah about 200,000 homes receive TV signals by antenna. Unfortunately many families may still not be ready for the transition. Studies show that many of those who would lose their television signals still have not taken steps needed to make sure their TV sets will get reception after Feb. 17.

The digital transition can be relatively uneventful if you take time to prepare. If you get TV service from a video service provider like cable or satellite, or you have television sets with digital tuners you won't be affected. But if you have an older TV set that only gets signals from a roof-top antenna or "rabbit ears," your set will no longer get reception unless you do one of these three steps:

• Connect your TV sets to cable, satellite or another pay TV service.

• Buy a new television set with a built-in digital tuner.

• Buy a converter box for each TV that changes the digital signal back to analog.

The federal government is offering coupons to help offset the cost of these converter boxes and the boxes are available at several consumer electronics stores. Consumers can call 1-888-DTV-2009 or visit www.dtv2009.gov to learn more.