Lately. everyone is talking about "The Big Switch" from analog broadcasts
to digital broadcasts. You've likely seen the commercials on tv already and many people are worried
that they will have to rush out and buy a new television.
First, lets talk about what is really going to happen. The only switch that is going to happen is at
the broadcasters transmitters. The government is requiring broadcasters such as KFVS, KAIT, WPSD, and
all others to stop their analog transmitters at the time of "The Big Switch". So anyone that receives
their broadcasts over-the-air will need a television that has a digital tuner or a digital converter for
your old set. If you already have Satelite or Cable Television, you have nothing to worry about, the switch
will not affect channels provided over Cable or Satelite Television. If you happen not to have Cable
or Satelite Television and pick up your channels straight out of the air with an antenna, and have an older
non-digital tuner television, you would need to either get a digital converter or buy a new television set.
So to recap:
City Cable customers: Don't worry, nothing is changing for you.
Satelite customers: Don't worry, nothing is changing for you.
Residents that pick up channels from an antenna at their homes: You will need to buy a
converter or buy a new television with a digital tuner to receive over-the-air channels before
February 17th 2009. Converters can be purchased at most electronic retailers and a government
program is available to register for a $40 discount toward the purchase. Just check here at
dtv2009.gov..
