HDTV is knocking at our entranceway and you'll have to let it in! Will you be in the dark Feb 17, 2009? Better read on! March 1, 2007: Any component that has an analog TV receiver must also allow a digital tuner.
February 17, 2009: A governance authorization requires that all full-power TV stations stop broadcasting analog signals and shift to 100% digital broadcasting by THIS DATE!!! This shift will primarily alter nearly 15-20 million TV viewers who rely on localised over-the-air broadcasts received via antenna.
Viewers who donate to cable or satellite TV shouldn't experiencesee any disruption in those services. If needed, your Cable or Dish provider will supply a digital set-top box that will work with your TV.
For continuing broadcasting after the 2009 cutoff, all of you out there with your old-fashioned TVs (analog-only tuners) will need to be attached to a digital-to-analog device box, or replaced by a new HDTV with a built-in digital tuner. As of now these device boxes will sell for between $50 and $70.
These will be obtainable to the public very soon! If you opt out for the "stand alone" converter box don't be fooled that you will have a high definition signal, you will be receiving a digital signal alright but like the boxes title, it's converting it back to analog!
Also if you currently subscribe to DIRECTV or DISH, your HD satellite receiver will most likely include an over-the-air HD tuner to get your localised HDTV stations. Let me add something to this though... most all your Cable and Satellite companies will charge you more (usually around $10/month more) to get your localized High def signals via there receiver!
If you choose this way and your ok with $10 fee your prompt to go! Your otherwise choice?... Buy your own over-the-air (OTA) HDTV antenna and pocket the $120/year! The antenna is cheap and actually you will get a sharper picture than via your cable or Dish provider's box!
How?... When you get your Hi def signal via your own hd antenna your are getting a (pure) 100% digital uncompressed signal! Receiving your signal through a Dish/Cable provider causes the HD signal to get compressed (squeezed smaller) in order for your provider to transmit along with all the other channels their providing you!
Hdtv is quickly coming but it's ok. Having the noesis of the options you possess to decide upon will make it effortless to open the door!
