The DTV Standard

On May 26, 2006, the United States Congress made the most important decision for the future of television in the country. It declared that as of February 18, 2009, all television signals will be broadcast digitally. This will leave anyone without a digital signal capable television in the dark come June 12, 2009.

Since analog television signals currently use more bandwidth than their digital counterparts, this transition to digital only signals will allow for a better use of the bandwidth left over. Congress anticipates that the left over bandwidth can be used to lower internet prices and allow more people to take advantage of the Internet. This was not the only reason the switch was made, but it is one of the explanations for it.

There were several provisions made in the bill that Congress passed. First and foremost, it put into place that as of March 1, 2007, all new televisions must be equipped with a digital tuner. Anyone who has a TV and is relying on over the air broadcasting, such as television signals coming from something other than a cable box, may required an analog-to-digital tuner. The government has set-up a voucher program for those who are eligible to receive up to $40 to put towards the purchase of a convertor box. While convertor boxes will range from $40 to $119, the government feels the $40 is more than enough for the majority of people that will need to purchase a tuner.

Congress has done everything it can to educate and inform consumers about the changes. Retail stores that sell televisions have also supported the change by informing customers about the switch to digital. While some may think it is silly for such a change, in the long run, the DTV standard is sure to be one of the best and worthwhile changes to television the country has ever seen. Take the time to learn about the changes, see what you need to do to be prepared and do not be left in the dark once June 12, 2009 rolls around.