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Analog televisions (and devices with a TV tuner) using an antenna will require a converter box to receive broadcast digital TV. Analog television service is the traditional method of transmitting TV signals and has been the standard broadcast technology since the inception of television. Analog television service isn't as efficient as DTV, and does not allow the wide variety of programming options that will be available with the new digital format.

Cable, satellite or dish service customers won't be affected by the death of analog. But if you have at least one set that receives signals off air, you will need a converter box. Cable and TiVo users may also be affected, you should call your cable provider to be sure you will still have a picture after the deadline. In fact, it seems the only people who won't be affected are ones who have all their televisions connected to a satellite system.

One common misconception is that digital TV is High-Definition TV by default. The DTV transition is only a transition from analog broadcasting to digital broadcasting. It is not a transition from analog broadcasting to High Definition broadcasting. Digital broadcasting allows for High Definition broadcasts, but High Definition is not required, and you do not need to buy a HDTV to watch digital TV. A Standard Definition DTV (which is simply a TV with an internal digital tuner), or a digital-to-analog converter box hooked to an analog TV, is all that is required to continue watching on-air broadcast TV.

Coupon-eligible converter boxes scan the airwaves to look for available channels. However, with some boxes you cannot add channels to your viewing list without also deleting channels. Look carefully at the features of the converter box you buy. With a coupon, you should be able to get your converter box for around ten dollars.

Get more info on Digital Converter Boxes here.

Carl Ringwall is the owner of Data SystemsPlus, a web consultancy offering a variety of e-learning offerings, software and tools. Considered one of the top blogs for forming a coherent internet marketing strategy, Carl's online business blog is a must for anyone running a internet home based business.