The Guide to Digital Transition

By now you've probably heard about digital television. You know that local TV stations around the country are transitioning to digital TV. However, you might not understand what that means for you. This guide will help you understand the new universe of digital TV.

Broadcasters are changing to digital because the governement has mandated that local TV stations must provide their programming in the new broadcasting technology known as digital TV. Digital brings a crisper, clearer look to your TV picture. Digital technology all lets broadcasters transmit network programming in high-definition as well, also a much sharper picture. Finally, digital technology is also more efficient, freeing up space to transmit other information, such as safety services or additional channels. Nearly all local stations are currrently sending their programming today in digtial as well as analog. They will no longer transmit their programs in analog after February 17th, 2009 per the government mandate.

However, you won't lose your local programming on that date. Nor do you have to rush out today to buy a new set. But here's what you will need to know to keep recieving your regular programs from the local station.

The big question you probably have is "What do I need to buy?"

NewWave will be making the investment in our cable infrastructure to continue to provide local networks to you after the transition. So the answer is: nothing.

Many of these signals are available in high-definition and available through NewWave. If you decide to take the high-definition plunge, you'll need a new set. High-definition sets have dropped significantly in price the last few years. While you can still spend thousands for a fancy model to hang on the wall or stretch across your living room, the good news is you can also buy a high-definition set for under $500 today. Head into any electronics retailer that sells TVs and you should be able to find one. You want to check a consumer guide in advance for specific makes and models.

Once you've got the set, you can sign up for high-definition programming through NewWave and not only get your local networks, but also other networks like ESPN, Discovery, ESPN2, TNT and more. If you don't have NewWave's high-definition package, you can still get high-definition signals and digtal TV. You simply need an antenna appropriate for your location to recieve your local programming free over the air on your new high-definition set.

Also, remember that if you don't want to invest in a high-definition TV, your set won't go dark on February 18th, 2009. NewWave will be making the necessary investment to ensure you continue to receive this programming.

By the end of 2007, more than 47 million households in the United States will have high-definition TV sets, up from 35 million at the end of 2006. Also, by the end of 2007, only 16 million of those 47 million homes will have hooked up their high-definition sets to high-definition programming, according to Jupiter Research. Many consumers don't realize they must sign up for HD programming from their cable operator or use rabbit ears to recieve the programming free via their local broadcaster. So if you do buy that new set, don't forget to get the programming too!

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information visit www.dtvtransition.org