But if you're still using rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna, you have the following options: (1) buy a digital-to-analog converter box and connect it to your analog TV; (2) buy a digital TV (a TV with a built-in digital tuner); (3) subscribe to a cable or satellite pay service; (4) ditch television altogether and take up reading.

Question: How do I know whether I have a digital TV?

Answer: First, wipe off the multiple layers of dust on the back of your set and look for labels that might contain the terms "DTV" or "Built-in digital tuner."

If you own a high-definition (HDTV) set, you're fine. And if you were looking to replace your old TV set anyway (a perfect holiday gift to yourself), keep in mind that all sets built in the U.S. since 2006 are equipped with a digital tuner.

If you have any doubts about the status of your television, contact the manufacturer and have your model number handy.

Question: What is a digital-to-analog converter box?

Answer: It's a wondrous plug-in device that receives and magically converts digital signals into a format for display on an analog television. (Note: You do not need to wait for the DTV transition date to connect the converter box to your television.) Installation instructions can be found at www.DigitalTips.org.

Converter boxes are available at electronics stores and generally cost from $40 to $70 — or less than you'd pay for the series DVD set of "The Sopranos."

Question: What is the Government Converter Box Coupon Program?

Answer: Through March 31, 2009, each U.S. household may request up to two $40 coupons to help pay for the cost of converter boxes. The coupons are free, but supplies are limited. Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. To apply for the coupons, call the government's 24-hour hotline at 888-388-2009 or go to www.DTV2009.gov.

Question: If I'm buying a new TV, does it have to be high-definition?

Answer: Absolutely not — even though the salesperson at the big-box store might not tell you so. High-definition (HDTV) and digital TV are not synonymous and regular digital television sets are much less costly.

On the other hand, if you want the sharpest picture available — if you want to see every bead of sweat on the football player's brow — then, by all means, fork over the extra bucks for that snazzy flat-screen.