By now you have heard that some TV sets will stop working on February 17, 2009.

Today most people have analog televisions. All broadcast TV stations in the country have temporary use of a second, separate channel so that they can transition from analog broadcasting to digital. The deadline for the digital transition is February 17, 2009. When analog broadcasting ends, consumers with analog sets will need to obtain a separate converter "Box" to watch over-the-air TV. Analog sets equipped with a converter box will display the digital broadcasts, but not in full digital quality.

The following is more information than you ever wanted on the subject but it could save you time, trouble and money.

In general, if you have a TV made before 2002 you will likely need a Box. To confirm this, go to the manfacture's data that came with your TV or their Internet Support site to see if your model has an ATSC tuner. If no, you need a box. Don't bother asking the folks where you bought it, they know less about it than you do already from this writeup. I was told at Wal-Mart if it didn't say HD TV on my TV, I needed a box! Not true!

I offer the following recommendation if you are faced with buying a "box". Do not apply for the government coupons until later this year. The coupons are only good for 90 days and there will be some cheaper boxes coming out. A company called Echostar will be offering a unit for $40 late this summer - the price is equal to the coupon value. Thus, little or no out of pocket expenses.

You do have the option of buying a new TV. There are "Integrated" digital TVs that include the box and a Moniter (the TV tube or panel), all in one box but are NOT High Definition. There are also High Definition TVs that include everything in one box. Don't by fooled by thinging "Integrated" is high definition - it is clearer than what you have now but it is not High Definition.

Following are several refernce sites to assist you if the above is not enough:

The Federal Communications Commission Explanation

National Association of Broadcasters DTV website

DTV Transition Coalition information.

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By Denis Marque,
RealtorŪ

West USA Realty,