TV Switch to Digital- Are you ready??

The television industry is approaching a historic moment; on Tuesday, February 17, 2009, the nation’s TV broadcasters will complete their transition to an all-digital format. Digital television (DTV) is a newer, more efficient, broadcast technology that offers viewers dramatically clearer pictures and better sound than the traditional analog system.

This change will affect millions of households that only receive over-the-air signals, as well as those that have secondary over-the-air TV sets in their bedrooms and/or kitchens.

Viewers who do not subscribe to a paid cable or satellite service and do not have a digital tuner inside their television will need to take one of the three steps outlined below to continue watching TV after the transition.

1. Purchase a TV set with a built-in digital tuner.

2. Subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay TV service.

3. Purchase a DTV converter box for your existing TV set.

Digital-to-analog converter boxes receive digital over-the-air signals from your antenna, convert them to analog and then send the signals to your existing analog television set. Through March 31, 2009, all U.S. households are eligible to request up to two $40 government-sponsored coupons to off-set the price of the boxes, allowing viewers to continue watching free over-the-air television on their older analog sets.

Part of WXXI's outreach initiative (is) to help over-the-air viewers in the Greater Rochester area prepare for the digital transition. The initiative also includes a toll-free telephone help center, staffed by trained technicians and personnel.

Consumers can call 1-866-348-9994 to have their DTV questions answered.

WXXI was recognized for its ongoing commitment to helping Rochesterians prepare for the analog shut off. WXXI has been engaged in a program to build community awareness and understanding about the digital transition for the past year. With the FCC contract WXXI will build on the work it has already done, and dedicate more effort in reaching those who need help the most – seniors, citizens in rural areas, disabled citizens, and minority communities.

Information provided from WXXI website.

For more information, visit wxxi.org/dtv. Call WXXI toll-free at 1-866-348-9994 or call Eldersource at 325-2800.