From the Statehouse

Week 4: February 4 - 8, 2008

PREPARE NOW: DIGITAL TELEVISION WILL SOON BE REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW

A law passed by Congress in 2006 will dramatically impact the way 150,130 Kansas residents view television, starting in 2009. On February 17, 2009, television stations across the country will complete a federally mandated transition from analog to digital television (DTV) broadcasting. Consumers have much to gain from this, including more free channels, better sound and enhanced pictures. However, 150,130 Kansas households that currently receive free, broadcast television signals through antennas- and do not pay for subscription television service- will risk losing their reception altogether unless they take easy steps to upgrade.

The law:

In the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005, Congress set a hard deadline of February 17, 2009 for television stations to replace traditional analog broadcasts with digital broadcasts. By 11:59 p.m. on February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations must switch off their analog broadcasting signals and begin broadcasting exclusively in the digital format.

How to make the transition:

Consumers will have three options for making the switch to DTV and continuing their television service:

1. DTV converter box: Purchase a DTV converter box that will convert the digital signal into analog for an existing analog television set. Converter boxes are available for approximately $50-$70. The federal government also offers consumers $40 coupons for purchase of these boxes (more information below).

2. Digital TV set: Purchase a new television set with a built-in digital tuner. All televisions with a digital tuner are able to receive signals broadcast by television stations.

3. Paid service: Subscribe to cable, satellite or a telephone company/television service provider. All these services will allow consumers to receive digital television signals on their analog television sets.

Converter Box Coupon Program:

The government will help consumers with the cost of upgrading to digital. As part of the law, Congress approved a $1.5 billion converter box coupon program to be administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Between January 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to assist with the purchase of up to two converter boxes. Coupons will be mailed to eligible households and will expire 90 days after issuance. The coupons cannot be combined to purchase a single converter box, nor can they be used toward the purchase of other products.

Also visit www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon.

Common Questions:

Can I keep my old TV set, even if it is not a digital television?

YES, you will just need to explore one of the three options above to still receive service after February 17, 2009.

How do I know if I have a digital television set?

Check your owner’s manual or look for an indication that it has a built-in Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) tuner. You can also go to the manufacturer’s website and check the capabilities of the set by manufacturer model number.

Is HDTV the same thing as DTV?

No, DTV is digital television. HDTV is high definition television.

Why did Congress pass this law?

Congress passed this law because DTV is a more efficient way to broadcast, and it will free up the airwaves for other services. DTV also provides movie-quality pictures and sound, more channels and free high-definition television (for consumers who own high definition television sets).

Does Kansas have to comply?

Because it is federally mandated, all states must comply with this law.

Where can I get more information about the DTV Transition?

Visit the National Association of Broadcasters’ digital television web site: www.dtvanswers.com