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DIGITAL TELEVISION TRANSITION

Digital Television Transition
On Feb. 17, 2009, all full-power television broadcast stations will broadcast only in digital format. TV viewers who currently receive their signals “over the air” by using a rooftop antenna or rabbit ears will have to make adjustments by installing a digital TV converter box or pursuing other options. A television connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box.

The move to digital
According to the National Association of Broadcasters, digital TV (DTV) is a more flexible and efficient technology than the current analog system. The switch to digital broadcasting will enable television stations to offer clearer pictures, better sound quality and more programming choices. The analog turn-off will also free up parts of the airwaves to provide spectrum for public safety communications and advanced wireless services.

Getting prepared
If you do not subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay TV service and your television is not equipped with a digital tuner, you will need to prepare your television to receive the digital signal by installing a DTV converter box. The federal government is administering the TV Converter Box Coupon Program that allows each U.S. household to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, which can be applied toward the purchase of eligible converter boxes.

Other options for preparing for the switch are subscribing to a paid TV service, such as cable or satellite, or purchasing a new digital TV.

Additional resources
More information about the analog-to-digital television transition is available from the Federal Communications Commission.

This information is provided as a courtesy to South Dakota consumers. The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission does not regulate television services.