Why do we need to get a digital converter for old TV. Where do we get one?

Question

Why do we need to get a digital converter for old TV. Where do we get one?

Answer 1

Your local cable service provider will rent one to you.

You can either pick it up at the local office and install it yourself, or have a technician do it for you.

Answer 2

Why Are Broadcast TV Stations Switching to All-Digital?

Congress mandated the conversion to all-digital television broadcasting, also known as the digital television (DTV) transition, because all-digital broadcasting will free up frequencies for public safety communications (such as police, fire, and emergency rescue). Also, digital is a more efficient transmission technology that allows broadcast stations to offer improved picture and sound quality, as well as offer more programming options for consumers through multiple broadcast streams (multicasting). In addition, some of the freed up frequencies will be used for advanced commercial wireless services for consumers.

What Do I Need To Do To Be Ready For The DTV Transition?

What you need to do depends on the source of your television programming, whether you receive programming over-the-air or from a paid provider such as a cable or satellite TV company.

How Do I Receive Digital Broadcasts If I Don’t Subscribe To Cable Or Satellite?

If you receive only free over-the-air television programming, the type of TV you own, either a digital TV or an analog TV, is very important. Consumers who receive only free over-the-air television may view digital programming through a TV set with a built-in digital tuner (integrated DTV) or a digital-ready monitor with a separate digital tuner set-top box. (Both of these digital television types are referred to as a DTV). The only additional equipment required to view over-the-air digital programming with a DTV is a regular antenna, either on your roof or a smaller version on your TV such as “rabbit ears.”

If you have an analog television, you will have to purchase a digital-to-analog set-top converter box to attach to your TV set to be able to view over-the-air digital programming .

To learn more about where to buy/get one go here:

https://www.dtv2009.gov/

I believe they are giving two coupons to get 2 of them free. I;d read more into it.

Answer 3

cable companies require you to have a digital converter if you want their specialty channels. they usually rent them to you.

digital HDTV is a separate thing . you cant get HD from an non HD set

Answer 4

actually i heard that the government is paying for each household to have 2 of them. anything after that you pay for.