When we get the converter box for HD television, do we begin now to use it or wait till next year?

Question

I am about to purchase a converter box to be prepared for next year's change. What's the rule of thumb here? Will the converter box improve anything on my t.v. now? Will my t.v. even work with the converter before next year?

Answer 1

The digital signals are in the air now.  You can start using it immediately.  In fact it's a good idea to start using it immediately so you can work out any reception / antenna problems now before you are completely dependent on it.

The converter box will not turn you existing set into HD, but will allow you to view (with analog quality) the digital stuff being broadcast.  Many stations are putting sub-channels in their digital signals and you can view them with a converter box right now, too.

Two of the local stations have their weather radar on a sub channel.  Last night, I was able to check on the progress of a storm moving in.

Answer 2

Digital TV is being broadcast in much of the US already.

For example, in NYC, all of the stations are broadcasting in DTV in addition to their old analog signals.

Your picture with DTV should be better than with analog. In addition, because they can squeeze-in more DTV signals in to the same bandwidth as used for analog TV, many stations are broadcasting sub-channels in addition to their main channel.

For example, you might receive the main signal on 2.1 and also sub-channel signals on 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4. These might carry news, weather, traffic, children's programming, Etc.

So, get your converter and join the DTV revolution!