Dear Tech In-Law,
Don’t laugh, but I still have one of those old-timey TV’s with those things that stick up in the back (Antennas). We live a simple life w/o cable TV and I think at one point, we had to mold some aluminum foil to one of the antennae because of bad reception. I heard that at some point next year these “dinosaur” models will not work. Can you tell me when we may have to splurge and explain why? Do you know of a good museum where I can donate my “fat-backed” TV?
Bart


Dear Bart,
That's a great question and one that you will hear about more and more in the coming months. In a nutshell, here is the "official" explanation from the digital TV transition website:

"At midnight 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 and more programming options and will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders."

Now, let me just say this is a perfect opportunity to stretch the truth a little and great reason to offer to your spouse that you will be forced to buy a flat panel HDTV. Not sure that will fly, but hey it's worth a shot.

Here's the reality. DTV is not HDTV, so you don't have to buy a HDTV. Actually, your dinosaur is not quite extinct yet - you can still use it just as before. TVs that are connected to cable or satellite will not have to do anything, everything will still work as before. For anyone wishing to keep their analog TV without a pay for service, you will need a converter box in order to do so. The good news is Congress created a coupon program where each U.S. household can receive two $40 coupons that can be applied toward eligible converter boxes. So, you should be able to install next February 17th before bed, go to sleep and then wake up to your favorite morning program just as before.

Oh, and don't toss those rabbit ears or your homemade aluminum foil booster either. You will need to install those to the box to continue to pick up the signals just as before!

To read more about the program and to apply for a coupon, click here.