Today marks a technological milestone in the United States when all television broadcasters cease sending out analog signals in favor of Federally mandated digital television signals. The effort was postponed from its original transition date of February 17 to today, June 12 in an effort to help people without cable or satellite television service prepare.

However, it is estimated that at least 2.3 million households are not prepared and their television sets went dark, or more appropriately, they went snowy with no signal.

According to the Federal Communications Commission, the digital TV (DTV) transition began over two decades ago as engineers set an ambitious technological goal: moving broadcast television into the digital age.  Efficient digital technology would provide consumers with a better picture and sound and more channels, while at the same time clearing valuable airwaves to meet the explosive demand for advanced wireless services, including first-responder radio.

The transition also had a policy goal: to make the switch with as little disruption to the public as possible.  That’s why the Federal Communications Commission and the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration are intently focused on making sure as few people as possible lose access to the valuable news, information and entertainment programming they count on.

 “In any change this big, there are going to be disruptions,” said FCC Acting Chairman Michael J. Copps.  “We are trying our best to provide people, especially those who are most at-risk, with the help they need to make the switch as smoothly as possible.   And we’re going to keep offering it after June 12, so people should call us at 1 (888) CALL-FCC.”

“The nation’s DTV transition is a tremendous undertaking,” said NTIA Acting Administrator Anna M. Gomez. “The overwhelming majority of Americans are prepared, but despite our best efforts, some [are not]. Consumers should know that even after June 12, they can still apply for coupons to help them purchase TV converter boxes.”


  • Outreach and resources offered by the two agencies include:
  • Distribution of 59 million $40 coupons for TV converter boxes
  • Redemption of nearly 31 million coupons
  • Continued availability of TV converter box coupons for consumers who apply up until  July 31, while supplies last, at www.dtv2009.gov, 1 (888) DTV-2009, and also by fax and mail
  • Establishment of over 600 walk-in centers providing hands-on help
  • Assistance for consumers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing through Communication Services for the Deaf at 1 (877) 388-4968, 1 (877) 889-4279 (TTY), 1 (866) 351-1950 (video phone), 1 (888) CALL-FCC, and www.c-s-d.org
  • Capacity for up to 200,000 home installations of converter boxes by FCC contractors
  • Home installation of converter boxes by AmeriCorps volunteers in 30 markets
  • In-home installation available from 57 fire departments nationwide
  • In-home and walk-in services available through June, and in some cases, through July