If you choose to continue using your old television set, you will need to purchase a converter box. The purpose of the box is to convert the new digital signals into a format that works with your old analog television. There are three steps in this process:
The federal government has set up a program to help consumers cover the cost of converter boxes. U.S. households can request two $40 coupons which can be used toward the purchase of up to two converter boxes.
Where do viewers go to apply for coupons?
Between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, you can request a coupon (while supplies last) in one of three ways:
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.
Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632). Download a Coupon Application here.
Do the coupons expire?
Yes. Coupons expire after 90 days from date of issuance. If you only applied for one and it expired, you may apply for second coupon. If you applied for two coupons and both expired, you may not apply again.
When is the last day to apply for coupons?
The last day to apply for converter box coupons is March 31, 2009.
When is the last day to redeem coupons?
The last day on which they may be redeemed is July 9, 2009.
Each household is eligible for two $40 coupons, but what if I only need one?
You can apply for just one or both.
Step 2: Buy a converter box
Where can I purchase a converter box?
You can locate stores in your area that carry converter boxes by going here.
How much will converter boxes cost?
Converter boxes will vary in cost, from $40 - $70. There will be various types of converter boxes available, so you may want to shop around.
Are all boxes eligible for coupons?
No. Only converter boxes certified by the government will be eligible under the coupon program. A list of eligible converter boxes will accompany the coupons. The list is also available online.
Step 3: Hook box up to your TV
When you buy a converter box, you'll get:
The converter box itself, a coaxial cable, a remote control and RCA style audio video cables (most people won't need to use these cables.) You'll also need an antenna. If you have an old antenna, it should work just fine.
First, take the antenna cable from the back of your TV and plug it in to the back of the converter box where it says "from antenna." Next, take the coaxial cable that came with your box and plug it in to back of the converter box where it says "to TV." Finally, plug the other end of the coaxial cable into the TV where your antenna used to be.
Plug in your converter box and turn it on, along with your TV. You'll need to set your TV to channel 3 or 4 (similar to using a VCR), and follow the instructions you see on the screen to complete the set-up. In the future, you will use the remote control that comes with the converter box to change the channels.
Once the set-up is complete, you'll see a nice clean, crisp picture coming through.
Tips:
Antenna issues
Digital signals can be a bit finicky - you may have to make some changes to your antenna to get the best reception. For a complete discussion of antenna issues, see our antenna page.
Matching transformer
Some antennas and TVs may not have coaxial cable connections, but may use wire leads. If your TV or antenna has wire leads, then you will need a matching transformer. Matching transformers should be available in most discount and electronics stores.
