HDTV is shouting at our entree and you'll have to let it in! Will you be in the unknown February 17, 2009? Better read on! March 1, 2007: Any component that has an analog TV tuner must also include a digital tuner. Feb 17, 2009:
A government authorization requires that all full-power TV broadcasters stop broadcasting analog signals and turn to 100% digital broadcasting by THIS DATE! This transformation will primarily affect nearly 15-20 million TV viewers who rely on localized over-the-air broadcasts received via antenna. Consumers who concur to Directv or satellite TV shouldn't experience any delay in those services.
If needed, your Cable or Dish company will supply a digital set-top box that will work with your TV. For continuing reception after the 2009 cutoff, all of you out there with your old-fashioned TVs (analog-only tuners) will need to be coupled to a digital-to-analog device box, or replaced by a new HDTV with a built-in digital tuner.
As of now these converter boxes will sell for between $50 and $70. These will be obtainable to the public real soon! If you opt out for the "stand alone" convertor box don't be mistaken 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 localized HDTV stations. Let me add something to this though... most all your Cable and Satellite companies will charge you more (commonly around $10/month more) to get your localized High def signals via there receiver!
If you choose this route and your ok with $10 fee your prepared to go! Your otherwise option? Buy your own over-the-air (OTA) HDTV antenna and keep the $120/year! The antenna is cheap and actually you will get a better picture than via your cable or Dish provider's box!
When you get your Hi def signal via your own hd antenna your are getting a (pure) 100% digital uncompressed signal! Getting your signal through a Dish/Cable provider causes the HD communication to get compressed (squeezed smaller) in order for your provider to transport along with all the other channels their providing you!
Hdtv is quickly coming but it's ok. Having the knowledge of the options you to decide upon will make it unproblematic to open the door!
