How much do I have to pay for a TV converter box?
When TV converter boxes are available, retail stores will set the price. TV converter boxes are expected to cost between $40 and $70. The Federal Government permits each U.S. household up to two $40 coupons to help pay for the cost of the converter box. After applying the coupon, participating retailers will charge consumers the remaining balance of between $10 and $30.
Where can I buy a digital TV converter box?
Easy. We’ve prepared a list of coupon eligible converter boxes for you to make it easy. The page also contains links to make it possible for you to purchase online at a retailer that accepts the coupons. Shop online and save your gas.
When can I buy a TV converter box?
TV converter boxes are expected to be available in early 2008 at retailers where you would normally buy consumer electronics products. Before shopping for your converter box, you might want to call ahead to make sure retailers have converter boxes available.
What is meant by an “eligible” TV converter box?
DTV converter box models must meet technical and performance standards determined by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) in order to qualify for the Coupon Program.
A list of eligible make and model numbers for purchase with the coupon can be found at our website,
www.dtv2009.gov.
How big is the converter box?
Converter boxes are about the size of a paperback book. Most will fit on top of a small to medium TV set.
Does someone have to come into my home to install the converter box?
No, you should be able to install the converter box yourself using the instructions provided by the manufacturer. For specific questions, you should call the manufacturer’s technical support hotline or ask your retailer. The NTIA program does not provide technical support.
Which manufacturers are making the TV converter boxes? Are there differences?
See a complete list of eligible TV converter boxes on our website at www.dtv2009.gov. TV converter box features may vary depending on the brand; however all models will allow your analog TV to continue to operate after February 17, 2009. The best way to get information on individual converter boxes is to visit the manufacturer’s website—or ask a customer service specialist at a store that sells them.
Do I need to purchase a TV converter box that is the same brand as my TV?
No.
Can I start using my TV converter box now or do I need to wait until after February 17, 2009 for it to work?
Consumers can begin enjoying the benefits of digital television today. Because most full-power stations are currently broadcasting both in digital and analog, viewers can plug in their converter boxes and generally receive a clearer picture and “multicast” channels, where they are available.
Can I use the converter box along with my cable box?
No. Converter boxes from this program work only with over-the-air broadcast television signals, not cable or satellite service.
Will my VCR or DVD player still work once I plug my converter box into my TV?
The analog equipment you currently use will continue to work with (output to) your analog TV set just as before, but they will not be able to receive over-the-air programming without the TV converter box. Attach the converter to your VCR, TiVo, DVD-R, etc. instead of hooking it directly to your TV.
I have a handheld or battery-powered TV. Will this work after February 17, 2009? Can I connect it to a TV converter box?
Generally not.
Will I receive Closed Captioning through a converter?
Yes. Manufacturers of converters are required to provide Closed Captioning for display on your television.
Will I receive High-Definition TV with a converter box?
No. Analog televisions are not capable of displaying High-Definition resolution, but the picture will generally be better with a TV converter box. If you want to view High-Definition TV, then you will need one of the newer sets rated for “High-Definition” resolution.
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