In 1996, the United States Congress mandated that all over the air stations must cease broadcasting in analog format and begin broadcasting exclusively in digital format beginning on February 17, 2009. This move will free up bandwidth currently used for analog television broadcasts so it could be used for other communications.

Older analog televisions are not set up to receive the digital signals through antennae. However, these TV's can still be used if connected to cable or satellite service, or if attached to a digital converter box.

The federal government is offering two free $40 vouchers per household for the purchase of digital converter boxes. To take advantage of this offer, call 1-888-DTV-2009 or visit www.dtv2009.gov.

Additional information is available at he following websites:

• The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and
  Information Administration: www.ntiadtv.gov
• The Federal Communications Commission: www.dtv.gov
• The Digital Transition Coalition: www.dtvtransition.org
• The National Association of Broadcasters: www.dtvanswers.com
• The National Cable and Telecommunications Association:
   www.getreadyfordigitaltv.com

Copyright 2009, West Goshen Twp.