Ohio Department of Aging
Site MapSite HelpContact Us Text Size:
February 2008
Director's Notebook
How Will Digital Television Affect Seniors?
On Feb. 19, 2009, all full-power television stations are required to begin broadcasting a digital signal only. Many households that receive their television signal through an antenna on an older TV set may find themselves staring at a lot of "snow" if they haven't prepared. However, preparation can be relatively easy and inexpensive and doesn't require the purchase of a new TV.
DTV provides enhanced sound and picture quality, as well as expanded closed-captioning capabilities. It also allows stations to broadcast multiple programs at the same time, which means that, instead of the 3 to 6 channels typically available through an antenna, viewers could have access to 10 to 20, each offering unique schedules or specialized content not previously available.
The broadcast frequencies previously reserved for analog broadcasting will be re-assigned to allow for new wireless services and increased police and emergency services and communication.
Households that don't make the switch could lose a major means of access to the outside world, including news and emergency information. This is particularly troubling, given the likelihood that many households that rely on analog TV include older residents.
If consumers subscribe to a paid television service, such as cable or satellite TV, they probably don't need to do anything. Providers will ensure that subscribers continue receiving local broadcast programming. However, consumers should check to see if they will need to purchase or rent any new equipment in the future and if any additional fees will be charged.
If a consumer currently receives programming using an antenna - either roof-mounted or set-top ("rabbit ears") - he or she needs to determine if each television in the home is equipped with a digital tuner. If consumers purchased a television in the past year, it may already be DTV-ready. These sets will likely have labels or markings on them or statements in the informational materials that came with them that they include digital tuners. Televisions that are more than two or three years old are probably analog. Consumers can check with the TV's manufacturer or local electronics retailer if they have questions about their sets.
If a consumer does have an analog TV, it will need to be replaced or the consumer can purchase a digital-to-analog converter box to continue watching broadcast television on the set. A converter box is by far the most economical option. These devices are inexpensive (about $50 to $70), easy to install and available at most electronic retailers.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration is offering up to two $40 coupons per household to help defray the cost of converters. All households are eligible. Call toll-free 1-888-388-2009 or visit www.dtv2009.gov to apply.
Most stations already are broadcasting a digital signal. Check with local stations to determine the channel numbers for their digital broadcasts.
For more information on the DTV transition, call the Federal Communications Commission toll-free at 1-888-225-5322 or visit www.dtv.gov.
Ohio Department of Aging