What is a digital-to-analog converter box and how do I get one?
A digital-to-analog converter box is an electrical device that works to convert received digital signals from the antenna to analog signals for use by your television. It must be connected between the antenna and the analog television to work. If you know you’ll need a converter box, you may want to take advantage of the coupon program the U.S. Congress has initiated. Between January 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the purchase of up to two digital-to-analog converter boxes. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is responsible for administering this coupon program. Should I purchase a converter box with analog Pass-through capabilities? When purchasing a digital-to-analog converter box, it’s important that the converter box has “analog pass-through” only if you plan to watch low-power television (LPTV) stations. When checking out the NTIA’s list of coupon-el
Digital-to-analog converter boxes will make DTV signals viewable on analog TV sets. These converter boxes will be available in retail stores during the transition. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce has been directed by Congress to set up a program that will allow households to obtain coupons that can be applied toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes. How do I request a coupon? You can request a coupon while supplies last in one of four ways: • Apply online • Call the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), TTY 1-877-530-2634 (English), TTY 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish) • Mail a coupon application to: PO BOX 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Download a Coupon Application here. • Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632) The consumer contact center will operate in six languages in addition to English: French, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietname
