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The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has issued questions and answers on how the transition will work when all full-power TV stations in the United States stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital in February 2009.  You will read about how to request TV Converter Box Coupons.

Q. Will my television work after February 17, 2009?

Analog television sets using antennas will not work after February 17, 2009. TV viewers with those sets that are not connected to cable television will need to take action before February 17, 2009, to ensure their sets continue to work.

Q. What are my options so I can continue to get TV reception after February 17, 2009?

Consumers have a variety of options. If you are not sure what to do, take a quick quiz at www.DTVTransition.org.  Options include:

• Keeping your existing analog TV and purchasing a TV converter box.
• Connecting to cable, satellite or other pay service, or
• Purchasing a television with a built-in digital tuner.

Q. What is a converter box?

A converter box is a new product available in early 2008 that plugs into your analog TV and, along with your antenna, will keep your analog set working after February 17, 2009.  It is a one-time purchase and is expected to cost between $50 and $70.

Q. Where can I purchase a converter box?

TV converter boxes are expected to be available in early 2008 at retailers where you would normally buy consumer electronics products. Before shopping for your converter box, you may want to call ahead to make sure retailers have converter boxes available.

Q. What is the TV Converter Box Coupon Program?

Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.

Q. How do I get the coupons?

Between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, consumers can apply for up to two $40 coupons per household by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), by going online atwww.dtv2009.gov, or by mailing an application to TV Converter Box Coupon Program, P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Coupons will be mailed to requesters.

Q. How long are coupons active?

Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. Each coupon has an expiration date on it. Note: The last day to apply for the coupons is March 31, 2009, or until supplies are exhausted.

Q. Does someone have to come into my home to install the converter box?

No, you should be able to install the box using instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Q. How big is a converter box?

It’s about the size of a paperback book.

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