DTV TRANSITION FAQ
For more information, visit www.dtv.gov
Q. What is the digital TV transition?
A. Beginning on February 17, 2009, all broadcast TV signals (i.e. ABC, NBC, CBS, PBS, Univision, etc.) will be broadcast in digital format. The digital TV transition refers to the time period during which broadcasters are making this switch. Congress enacted legislation that would ensure the transition is completed by February 17, 2009. The transition will not affect Conway Corporation cable subscribers. However, viewers who rely on antennas (outside antennas and “rabbit ears”) to receive over-the-air broadcast signals on TV sets with analog tuners will need to obtain digital-to-analog set-top converter boxes to watch over-the-air TV.
Q. Why must customers switch to digital television?
A. The switch from analog to broadcast is a transition that has been mandated by the Federal government. The government is reclaiming the analog broadcast signals. Some of the signals will be used to enhance communications for emergency services providers such as fire and police departments.
Q. Why is government implementing the digital transition?
A. Changing over to a digital format will reduce the amount of signal spectrum the nation's TV broadcasting system uses, freeing up extra capacity for first-responders such as local police and fire departments. In addition, changing to digital broadcasting lets TV stations send clearer signals through the air. Picture and sound quality will be better.
Q. Will I be able to watch digital TV on my existing analog set?
A. All Conway Corporation customers will be able to watch these stations on any TV hooked up to cable. Conway Corporation Digital Cable customers already receive these channels in digital format, and Conway Corporation is committed to converting these broadcast channels for its analog customers. Non-cable customers can subscribe to our service or obtain a digital-to-analog converter box from a retail outlet.
Q. What should I do to prepare for the digital TV transition?
A. If you are an existing Conway Corporation customer, you don't need to worry. If your television is connected to cable, you will not have any impact and your TV will continue to work. However, if you only use a rooftop antenna (rabbit ears) to get your TV signals, you will need to do one of the following:
- Buy digital-to-analog converters to use with your current TV(s) and antenna
- Buy a new digital TV (still requires an antenna)
- Subscribe to Conway Corporation or another pay television service provider
Q. How do I know my TV is digital-ready?
A. Many digital television sets have labels that say "Integrated Digital Tuner," "Digital Tuner Built-In," "Digital Receiver," or "Digital Tuner," "DTV," "ATSC," or "HDTV" (High-Definition Television). If your TV has any of the above labels, you do not need a digital-to-analog converter box; however, you may still need an antenna for signal reception. For additional information, please visit www.dtv.gov.
Q. Will I need a new TV if I have an analog TV?
A. When broadcast stations stop analog service, you will still be able to use your analog TV to view over-the-air broadcast content if your TV is hooked up to cable, or if you purchase a special digital-to-analog converter box that is available at retail locations.
Q. How do I get a digital-to-analog converter?
A. All U.S. households are eligible to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the purchase of up to two, digital-to-analog converter boxes through March 31, 2009.. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has responsibility for administering the coupon program. For more information about the converter box program go to www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888-DTV-2009.
Q. Will I be able to use my VCR, DVD player or gaming console with a digital television set?
A. Yes, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders, and gaming consoles are all compatible with both analog and digital television sets.