Digital Television Is Here. Analog TV Ends Feb. 17, 2009. 
What You Need to Know to Keep Watching VPT.

U.S. television stations, including Vermont Public Television, must turn off their analog channels and broadcast exclusively in the new digital format (DTV) after Feb. 17, 2009.  Digital television is already here, providing clear pictures and sound, and more programming choices.  Many viewers are already enjoying Vermont Public Television’s high definition (HD) channel, Create channel and World channel, in addition to the regular schedule.

We want to make sure every viewer comes with us into the digital age, and we’re eager to help you with the information you need to keep watching VPT and other channels after Feb. 17, 2009.  On that day, by law, we must pull the plug on analog broadcasting.  If you’re not yet receiving digital TV, read on.

First, it’s important to know how you receive VPT and other local channels now, in order to know what you need to do to receive digital television.

Cable?  If you get your TV from a cable or telephone provider like Comcast, Charter, Burlington Telecom or Time Warner, your cable company will continue to provide the full power local stations you now receive.  You are not likely to need any additional equipment.

Satellite?  If you get your TV from DirecTV or DISH Network, your satellite company will continue to provide the full power local stations you now receive.

Antenna?  If you receive over-the-air television by rabbit ears or other type of indoor or outdoor antenna, you will need either a newer digital TV set or a digital converter box connected to each older analog television set you use. You don’t need to buy a new TV.  (Note: Viewers in Bennington County who receive VPT translator channels 36 and 53, please contact us for special information.)

Viewing in Canada?  Please contact us for special information.

Not sure how you receive VPT? Not sure what kind of TV set you have?  Contact us.

SUMMARY:

If your TV set is:  And you get your programming from:	You will need by 2/17/09:
Analog		  Over the air by antenna		Digital converter box & suitable antenna
Analog		  Cable or satellite			Nothing more
Digital		  Over the air by antenna		Suitable antenna
Digital		  Cable or satellite			Nothing more

Coupons for Antenna Viewers.  Request them now. 
The U.S. government will mail up to two digital converter box coupons valued at $40 each to each U.S. household requesting them.  Each coupon may be used toward the purchase of one box.  Coupon supplies are limited, so we encourage you to request them now.  Go to www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888-388-2009.

Questions? Contact VPT at 1-800-639-7811, view@vpt.org, or find out more at www.vpt.org.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Is digital TV the same as HDTV (high definition television)?
All HDTV is digital, but not all digital TV is HD. Some digital broadcasts are in standard definition, a good, clear format. To see true HD, you need a HD television set, but you can buy digital TV sets that are not HD but good quality. You can view HD programs on an analog TV set with digital converter box, although you won’t be seeing true HD.  
 
What is analog television?
It’s the traditional method of transmitting television signals, the standard technology ever since TV began. 

Why is this change happening?
DTV is a more efficient technology than the current analog system. The switch to digital broadcasting enables television stations to offer clearer pictures, better sound quality and more programming choices.  Also, since digital television uses less broadcast spectrum than analog television, going digital will free up some of the spectrum for public safety and for commercial uses such as wireless communications.

What equipment do I need, if I’m an antenna viewer and don’t have a digital TV set?
You don’t need to buy a new TV, if you currently receive free over-the-air television programming on an analog television set and want to keep using it.  However, you will need to buy and connect a digital converter box before Feb. 17, 2009. Converter boxes are available at stores and online, usually in the $60 price range.  

You’ll also need a suitable antenna.  Your current antenna is likely to work well, but some viewers find they need to reposition it to receive digital signals.  Some people find they need a better antenna.  You can get a recommendation for the best type of antenna by entering your address at antennaweb.org.  (Works only with U.S. addresses.)

You will also find antenna tips by visiting www.vpt.org or calling VPT at 1-800-639-7811.

If you’re going to buy a new digital TV, you may want to check the FCC website for shopping tips: www.dtv.gov.  You can also find information from Consumer Reports magazine at www.consumerreports.org.

What is a digital converter box?
It’s an electronic device that you connect between your TV set and your antenna that converts the digital television signal into analog so an analog TV can display digital programming. 

Where can I buy a converter box?
The U.S. government has certified electronics chains like RadioShack, Best Buy and Circuit City, as well as department stores, drug stores and grocery stores to sell coupon-eligible boxes.  There are also online vendors who accept coupons and ship boxes.  Reach them via www.dtv2009.gov.  You can order boxes by telephone, as well. Contact VPT for more information.

Got an infrequently asked question?
Call Vermont Public Television at 1-800-639-7811, e-mail view@vpt.org or visit www.vpt.org.

8/08