Dec 8, 2008 2:54 pm US/Eastern
Boston TV Stations Plan 'Virtual Shutdown' For DTV
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
Boston area television stations will give consumers a sneak peek to make sure they are ready for the February 2009 DTV transition. On Tuesday, December 9 there will be a series of 'virtual shutdowns', where all local television stations and cable providers switch briefly to digital signals.
What Is Digital Television?
WHAT'S THE TEST FOR?
On February 17, 2008 all analog television signals will cease to exist, replaced exclusively by digital signals. For most people in the Boston area, this transition should be seamless. But 'DTV Day' is a way for you to be sure.
What Happens on Feb 17, 2009?
WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON DTV DAY?
On Tuesday, December 9, there will be three, two minute virtual shutdowns, when all local television stations and cable operators will replace analog signals with digital signals. These shutdowns will take place at 5:15 a.m., 6:15 a.m. and 5:15 p.m. During that time you will see a message on your television screen telling you that your set is, or is not, ready for the digital transition.
Additionally, WGBH-TV (PBS) will dedicate its entire day of programming to uninterrupted information about DTV. Viewers whose sets are not digital-ready will see information on how to get ready, as well as a telephone number to call for help. Viewers whose sets are ready will see regular programming.
IS MY TV READY?
If you get your television signal from a cable or satellite provider, you should be fine. They will take care of making sure a digital signal is delivered to your television.
If you get your signal from an antenna, you may need to make some changes. Your options include:
(1) Purchase a new television set with a built-in digital tuner;
(2) Purchase a
set-top converter box that will convert the digital signal into analog for an existing television set; or
(3) Subscribe to cable, satellite or a telephone company television service provider, in which case analog sets will continue to function.
How You Can Prepare
Buying A Digital TV
The Converter Box
These are all changes you can make now, no need to wait for February.
I WANT TO LEARN MORE
There is plenty of information available on the digital television transition available at
http://wbztv.com/dtv. You will find a helpful FAQ section and video tutorials.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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