Beginning on February 17, 2009, everyone will be able to enjoy digital TV. On this date, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has ordered that all TV stations broadcast in digital format only putting an end to analog broadcasts. Digital TV will provide better picture quality, better sound and maybe even more viewing choices for you.

In order to receive the digital broadcast signal, you will either need a digital televion or a digital television converter box (DTV converter) for your analog television. If you decide to upgrade to a digital TV from your analog TV, be sure you do some research first. Not only do digital TVs come in several levels of quality, some come with the necessary digital equipment integrated within the system and others require the purchase of separate components.

If you wish, you can simply purchase a converter box for your analog television. The converter box sits on top of your television, connects to your antenna, and converts the digital signal to an analog signal allowing you to watch digital TV on your analog television. Without a converter box, your analog television will not receive any television broadcast signals at all after February 17, 2009.

Although the digital converter box will allow you to view digital TV on your analog television, it will only display Standard Definition TV (SDTV), which is the lowest quality digital picture. In order to enjoy high quality picture digital TV with movie theatre effects and surround sound, you will need a High Definition TV (HDTV), which is the highest quality digital picture.

Digital TV will transform your television viewing experience. It will provide better picture quality, better sound, and it might even provide more viewing choices. For more information visit the FCC's website at www.fcc.com.

If you have recently installed a converter box or purchased a digital television set and you have lost some of your familiar stations, consider your antenna. Moving it around or relocating it might bring in those lost stations and it might also give you more viewing choices. If moving your antenna does not give you the same stations you were enjoying before, you may need a new antenna. Digital signals are "all or nothing", so purchasing a new antenna will not improve your picture quality. Either you receive the digital signal or you don't. In some instances, digital signals may not reach you at all. If this is the case, you may have no choice but to go with a paid subscription service like cable or satellite. If you do buy a new antenna, ask about a return policy so you can return it if it doesn't improve your TV's performance.

A digital converter box (DTV converter) converts the digital signal to an analog signal so you can use your analog television to view digital broadcast stations. It is a small lightweight unit, weighing around 1.5 pounds, which sits on top of your television, connects to your antenna, and converts digital signals to analog. The base units cost between $50 and $60 dollars. Each analog television set needs its own converter box.

The FCC is currently providing $40 coupons, each good towards the purchase of an approved DTV converter box. The coupons are limited to two per household. To apply for a coupon, go to www.dtv2009.gov/.