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Elders in Action wants consumers to make informed choices about the DTV conversion. Contact us at 503 235-5474 or info@eldersinaction.org if you have questions
Confused about the Digital TV Conversion?
Elders in Action offers this helpful information:
On February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. Digital broadcasting promises to provide a clearer picture, more programming options and will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders.
How Will This Affect You?
Will my 20 year old TV set still work with the digital conversion?
YES - Digital TV and High Definition (HDTV) are not the same thing. High Definition TV is a personal choice. No one has to change to HDTV, but everyone has to switch to digital to continue to receive a TV signal.
Do I need to purchase a conversion box?
NO - If you currently have Cable or Satellite service, your provider will take care of the conversion for you.
NO - If you have a digital TV and get your TV programs from an antenna or over the air, you will not have to do anything. Consult your owner's manual or look at your TV set to find out if your set has an input connection labeled "digital input" or "ATSC".
YES - You will need to get a digital converter box if you have an analog TV and get your TV programs from "rabbit ears" or a rooftop antenna.
If you need a converter box you can apply for a $40.00 TV Converter Box Coupon ( limit 2 per household ) These federally funded coupons can be applied toward the $50 to $70 cost of eligible converter boxes available in early 2008 at retailers where you would normally buy consumer electronics products.
How do I request a coupon?
Between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, you can request a coupon while supplies last in one of four ways:
Apply online Click Here
Call the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline 1-888-388-2009, TTY 1-877-530-2634
Mail a coupon application to: PO BOX 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Download a Coupon Application here.
Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632)
Important Note: Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. Each coupon has an expiration date printed on it.
Elders in Action wants consumers to make informed choices. Please contact us at 503 235-5474 or info@eldersinaction.org if you have questions.
OPB an Elder FriendlyŽ Business partner of Elders in Action is a great resource for digital conversion information. To visit Oregon Public Broadcasting Click Here
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