Why does everybody have to switch to digital?

Question

Like with tvs and cable etc

why

whta is the big deal?

I heard FCC and MUST SWITCH

why?

Answer 1

We don't use 8 Track tapes or vinyl records any more either.  The TV system we have now was invented in the 1930s.  There is not much more that can be done with analog.  Digital is newer technology and has many advantages, just like CDs compared to vinyl records.

The truth is you don't have to change.  If you have cable or satellite, you will still have analog TV service after next February.  The change in February 2009 only affects Over The Air TV that you would get from an antenna.  If you wish to keep using your analog TVs, you can purchase inexpensive converter boxes.  The government is issuing coupons to assist with the cost of the converter boxes.  

Congress started this change in motion back in the mid 1990's and it is just now getting to the point consumers will have to do something.

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

What is the digital television transition?

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.

What is the TV Converter Box Coupon Program?

Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.

A TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box from this program.

Consumers have a variety of options. Options to explore include:

Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009, or

Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service, or

Purchase a television with a digital tuner.

Answer 3

We are switching because after 9/11 our government realized that we needed more airspace for our emergency responders.  So, they mandated the change from analog to digital to free up the airwaves to be used for multiple uses, the first and most important being to create emergency response channels for first responders in times of crisis.  Most of the rest of the airwaves were just recently auctioned off to cell phone companies, as the frequency currently being used by TV can carry a much larger signal that current wireless phone frequency.  I believe that Verizon won the bid, but has promised to keep them open.  This should lead to our cell phones being capable of much higher-quality streaming video, download speed, etc.  So, look forward to a lot of brand-new phones with cool features coming out within months of the February 2009 changeover!

Answer 4

"The biggest purpose is, they're able to send a lot more information that means more TV stations, more space to do more stuff, so that's the main reason," said Gunnell. "Analog just takes up a lot more data."

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.