The change seems silly to me.

[Kim]

I feel really torn about the digital switchover. I mean, I totally understand why the change is a good thing. I am seen how much better digital broadcasts look, but it seems like there should have been a better way to make the switch, you know? So many people still seem to be confused (including me!) about what they need to do to be able to still see TV when the change happens. I don't know. It just seems kind of silly to me.

[Shannon]

Hi Kim,

You're right, there are many people that are still feeling confused about the big February switchover, but surveys have found that people are becoming increasingly more aware. It really isn't just about providing a higher quality picture, switching over to digital is more efficient as well. Change is never easy, but I think you will be happy with the change once it is complete!

[Kim]

I guess I see what you mean. I am just not really big on watching TV. I mean, I like watching it and all, but it seems like some people take it way too seriously. They get all of these gadgets and gizmos and talk about all these different types of wires and stuff. It just doesn't make much sense to me. I see what you are saying though. I guess it will be good in the end. I just don't like change I guess!

[Bill]

I guess I agree a little bit with both of you. I think the change is going to be good because we will be getting higher quality television. At the same time, I am a little worried about people that can't afford the change or don't really want the change. I know the government is offering coupons to help people pay for the change, but it isn't enough to cover the entire cost of the converter. So, in that way, it seems a bit unfair to me.

[draiken78]

I can see why you would be concerned about the change. I view it as a really good thing though. You have to remember that the change will likely not even affect you. If you already subscribe to cable TV or Satelite TV you will have nothing to worry about. Most of them have already started transmitting digital signals, and the companies that haven't will simply send you a new cable or satelite box once they do switch to digital.

If you don't have cable or satelite and instead use an antenna to watch TV, you still have quite a few options. First and foremost, if you have a newer TV (ie: almost any TV that was made this decade) then you should be able simply keep watching TV the same way you always have. If you have an older TV, then wait for your $40 coupon the government is offering and get a converter box. The $40 coupon won't cover the entire cost most likely, but it will make the converter box cost about the same price as a full tank of gas for your vehicle.

Once you get the converter box, it's a simple matter of hooking it up to your TV. Most likely, your channels will look better because you will get better signal strength and the possability of some HD channels if you have an HD TV!

[Kim]

Thanks! I think you just answered my question! I was wondering about the type of converter I would need for my tv. It sounds like I might not have to get anything at all. I will have to try to find out if my tv is already digital. Does anyone know how I can get the coupon to help pay for the converter? Will I be able to get any converter that I like?

[draiken78]

To sign up for the digital converter coupons go to:
https://www.dtv2009.gov/

I'm not sure when they will be sending them out, or if they already have started sending them out. The coupon is good for any converter and gives you $40 off. It will probably not cover the entire cost of the converter, but it will help a lot and you should be able to pick which ever converter you want.

[Shannon]

There are actually some restrictions on the type of converter you can buy with the government coupon. In addition, it won't cover the full cost of purchasing a converter. The converters you can buy with the coupon basically downgrade the signal so your television can still receive broadcasts. So, if you are looking for an improved image, you will need to get a better converter or simply updrade your television. If you just want the basics and aren't in the market to get a new television, on the other hand, the coupon might be just what you need. You can also get two coupons per household, so you can buy converters for a couple of different television sets if you need to.