Like a ten minute drum solo, it’s coming. Beginning midnight February 17, 2009, Digital Television (DTV) will be more than a cool buzz phrase. It will be the law. At that time and by FCC mandate, full-power TV stations will turn out the lights on their analog transmitters. Cue the transition party-goers! Grab a stiff drink, hug a loved one, and stare at the silent blue screen for a few minutes. Or if you’ve prepared for the switch, grab a stiff drink, hug a loved one, and tune in to… well, perhaps the clearest reruns of Seinfeld you’ve ever seen. That’s right, DTV will breathe new life into the Elaine Christmas card episode. Obviously there will be other choices, but this post is really about the preparation, not the content.
Much misinformation has been spread about the equipment you’ll need to watch television after the change. Some irresponsible and/or uninformed electronics vendors have told consumers they will need a High Definition TV. While that’s not true, unless you’re a cable or satellite subscriber, you will need to buy a digital tuner and appropriate antenna. Public Service Announcements about the transition are finally starting to air, but why not get your information straight from the source. DTV.gov offers FAQs, news, equipment guides, and a DTV countdown clock. Don’t rely on salesmen or well-meaning friends and family for information. Click on the badge below and see what you might be missing.
