How do I know if I need a converter box? My TV now is connected to rabbit ears antenna?

Question

If I need a converter box, should I connect it now or wait until the first of the year.

Answer 1

Yes, you will need one.  It's up to you on when to get it.  You can also get cable or satellite and not get the converter.

Answer 2

If your TV already has a built in digital tuner, you will not need one.  You shoulud already be able to tell.  If you can get channels like 4-1, 4-2, etc, you do not need one.  Just to be sure, check your TV manual.  Look for terms like ATSC and digital tuner.

Keep in mind cable is required to keep analog until 2012.  There are a few exceptions, but nothing that requires consumers to go out and buy anything.  Your cable company will provide you with the equipment you need if they decide to go all digital.  The exceptions to the rule are so inconvienient for the cable companies that I doubt they will even mess with going all digital.

Answer 3

YES YOU NEED THE CONVERTER BOX. GET THE GOVERNMENT COUPONS ASAP, BECAUSE THEY ARE ONLY "WHILE SUPPLIES LAST".  YOU CAN CONNECT IT RIGHT AWAY, AND START ENJOYING DIGITAL NOW. OR YOU CAN WAIT. BUT GET THE COUPONS NOW. THEY'RE GOIN FAST.

Answer 4

You will need a converter box.

Go to dtv.gov to learn about a government program that gives you a $20 off coupon for buying a new converter box.

Answer 5

(This answer assumes you are located in the US)

You will need a converter box if your TV doesn't have a digital (ATSC) tuner. Take a look in your TV's menu. All TVs with digital tuners have a way to scan for digital channels. If there isn't any way to scan for them, you need the converter. Also if the TV was made before 1998 you can be sure it doesn't have a digital tuner.

The digital tuner in the converter I've  linked to is about as good as they get, so if your TV is cheap or more than a few years old, you might want one even if your TV has a digital tuner.

I suggest ordering one $40 off government coupon now and buying a converter when it arrives. Hook it up and see what kind of digital reception you get. This will give you some idea if you need a better antenna. The converter connects between your antenna and your TV.

In  most areas there are all ready more digital broadcasts than analog, so there is no point in waiting.

Answer 6

If you only use "rabbit ears" you will need to either subscribe to a video provider such as Verizon FIOS, cable co, or satellite TV.  You could also chose to stay provider free and get a digital converter.  If you choose that route you should go to dtv.gov first because you can request a coupon for $40 off of the converter.