Television Industry Goes Digital
By: Amanda Salem
Updated: January 3, 2008
We are now just about 14 months away from the television industry changing to digital strictly digital signals. That may soon have low-tech television owners scrambling to get government help for the big switch.
In 2009, anyone who doesn't have a digital TV set won't get a picture. So, starting this week, the government is offering 40 dollar coupons to help Americans upgrade to the digital network. It's a box that should cost from 50 to 70 dollars. It will be available at most retail electronics stores.
"It's just a small box that attaches to your television. It'll have its own remote control, so, its remote control will replace the remote control you have been using. And so, it's really a pretty simple device. It's real easy,” says Jeff Griffith, Owner of Radio Lab on
There are a limited amount of coupons, and they are available upon request. You can apply online at www.dtv.2009.gov. There is also a 24 hour hotline. That number is 1-888-388-2009.
You can request up to two coupons per household. If you already have cable or satellite, you won't need a box.
