This is the biggest thing to happen to TVs since the introduction of color. Digital television is no longer a subject discussed only among the techno-savvy and gadget-obsessed. It's now a hot topic ignited by the United States government, fueled by cable providers and electronics retailers, and spread in the everyday conversations between even the most casual consumers. You can try to avoid the escalating digital hype, but by February 2009, the digital transition will hit home whether or not you're ready for it.

The switch from analog broadcasting to digital has been years in the making. In the 1990s, Congress passed a mandate to change TV broadcasting from analog to digital to free-up more bands of the broadcast spectrum for public safety and emergency services, as well as for popular wireless services. Currently, most TV stations broadcast on digital and analog channels, with over 1,600 out of 1,745 full-power stations broadcasting digital programs. After February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations are required by law to end analog broadcasts.

David Rehr, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, considers this digital television transition "the most significant advancement of television technology since color TV was introduced." Television broadcasters will be able to offer programming with characteristics similar to DVDs: higher quality pictures without the typical TV interference or "snow." But you don't have to see DTV to tell the difference; the multi-channel digital surround sound, including Dolby Digital 5.1, will turn casual TV watching into a theatrical experience.

For many people, these benefits will come at a cost. Consumers who use an antenna on an analog set and do not subscribe to cable or satellite will need to upgrade in order to continue receiving television programming. Upgrading can be done in one of three ways: purchase a digital converter box (also known as a set-top box or converter box), purchase a digital television or subscribe to cable or satellite. Digital to Analog Converter Box On February 18, 2009, the curbs will not be cluttered with 70 million analog television sets and antennas. These TVs will continue to work after February 17 with the addition of a digital converter box. Because DTV broadcasters have been designated channels in the VHF and UHF bands, antennas should also continue working as long as a DTV signal is available ' so don't throw out the rabbit ears just yet.

The digital converter box is an electronic device that hooks up to an analog TV set to convert digital signals to analog signals. Converter boxes, priced from $40 to $75, can be purchased at electronics retailers across the country. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is currently providing an opportunity for consumers to cut down on the price of the digital transition. Each household may receive up to two coupons worth $40 each toward the purchase of digital converter boxes. However, the NTIA is offering enough coupons to supply only half of the nation's households. To receive these coupons while they last, consumers must apply online as soon as possible at https://www.dtv2009.gov/ or by phone at 1-888-388-2009.

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