Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program (Get free money to convert...)

National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) ^ | U.S. Government

[rlmorel]

The Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has launched the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program (Coupon Program), as authorized in the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005. Starting January 1, 2008, all U.S. households will be eligible to request up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to be used toward the purchase of up to two, digital-to-analog converter boxes. For more details on the federal regulations, including the budget information, please the DTV Converter Box Coupon Program Rules.

For a quick overview, see the Associated Press (AP) video about the digital TV converter boxes with Technical Writer Peter Svensson at AP Online Video Network www.ap.org/ovn/) See also an interview with John Kneuer, Assistant Commerce Secretary for Communications & Information, on the C-SPAN television program "The Communicators" on February 3, 2007. Mr. Kneuer discussed the conclusion of the transition to digital TV by February of 2009.

[gondramB]

>>Maybe. But that is what I use. Where I live there is already too much on TV. Why would I want more?<<

You may not an I won't try to suggest you should watch more.

For myself, I find that having four channels with things I am interested in recorded 24/7 then I can spend my limited TV watching time watching what I most prefer from the last week.

As for how long the analog space should be reserved - I would think that would depend on the number of people using it versus the dollar value of other uses. When it gets to the point that we can license the analog space for $300 per remaining analog user it may make sense to phase out government subsidized analog.

[zeugma]

Yes it is a boondoggle. We are being thrown a sop, because they are greedily destroying a perfectly good analog system and replacing it with an unwanted digital system.

At least that is how I see it.

Me too, and I'm pretty much Mr. UberGeek. Just ak Mrs Zeugma :-) 

[EBH]

Coupons came this week.

[rlmorel]

So...you just applied and they were sent? Did you have to send receipts?

[EBH]

Nope no receipts. I applied back in January for two coupons through their website. They are actually like plastic gift cards. Come with a list of TV’s that need the convertor box and places to buy them. I have until May to use them.