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At midnight on February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. As a result, analog television sets receiving free TV using an antenna or rabbit ears will not work after February 17, 2009. Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service will need to take action before February 17, 2009, to ensure their TV sets continue to work.
How Can I Continue to Get TV After February 18, 2009
Consumers have a variety of options to explore including:
1. Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009, or
2. Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service, or
3. Purchase a television with a digital tuner.
If you are not sure what to do, click here to take a quick quiz to help you figure out your options .
What is a TV Converter Box?
A TV converter box is a new product available in early 2008 that plugs into your analog TV and, along with your antenna, will keep your analog set working after February 17, 2009. A TV converter box is a one-time purchase and is expected to cost between $50 and $70. A TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box from this program.
To help offset the cost of a converter, Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.
For additional information about the TV Converter Box Program please click here .
How do I request a TV Converter Box Coupon?
Between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, you can request a coupon while supplies last in one of four ways:
Apply online
Call the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009).
Hearing-impaired consumers can use a TTY service by calling: 1-877-530-2634 (English/TTY) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish/TTY)
Mail a coupon application to: PO BOX 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Download a Coupon Application here .
Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632)
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