A DTV converter box is an easy-to-install electronic device that hooks up to your analog television set and over-the-air antenna and converts the digital television signal into analog, making it viewable on your analog TV. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will issue up to two converter box coupons valued at $40 each to households to help defray the cost of the converter box. www.ntia.doc.gov

When Can I Get A DTV Converter Box?

DTV converter boxes that transform digital television signals to analog are available for purchase at electronics retailers now for about $250, but are expected to cost $50 to $70 in early 2008. These converter boxes will allow consumers to maintain their free, over-the-air television service even on older analog TVs.

Where Can I Buy A DTV Converter Box?

DTV converter boxes are available at electronics retailers. Each box is expected to cost between $50 and $70 by early 2008. Households will also be able to request up to two $40 coupons from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that can be used toward the purchase of converter boxes.

When Can I Get A Coupon For A DTV Converter Box?

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will issue coupons for DTV converter boxes in early 2008. Households will be able to apply for up to two coupons, which must be redeemed within three months of receipt. The coupons cannot be combined to purchase a single converter box, nor can they be used toward the purchase of other products.

How Do I Sign Up For The DTV Converter Box Coupon Program?

Between Jan. 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the purchase of up to two, digital-to-analog converter boxes. For more information about the converter box coupon program, call 1-888-DTV-2009 or visit ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon.

How Do I Know If I Have An Analog Or A Digital TV Set?

To check whether your TV set can receive over-the-air digital broadcast signals, take a look at your owner's manual or look on the set for an indication that it has a built-in Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) tuner. You can also go to the manufacturer's Web site and check the capabilities of the set by manufacturer model number.

Will I Need A Special Antenna To Get DTV Over The Air?

If you currently use an indoor or rooftop antenna to receive over-the-air analog broadcast television signals and you have good or excellent reception quality, the same antenna should be able to provide you with reception of digital television broadcast signals. For more information about using an antenna to receive local television broadcast channels, visit www.antennaweb.org.

Will I Be Able To Use My VCR, DVD Player Or Camcorder With A DTV Set?

Yes, your existing VCR, DVD player and camcorder will still work with a digital television set, but not in high definition. Their video will be displayed in the maximum resolution that is available with each product.

Return To Digital Television Information