"Just what will happen on February 17th, 2009?"

That is the date that broadcasters will shut off their old “analog” transmitters. If you watch TV using an antenna, you’ll need to keep reading, and we’ll try to help you understand your options and guarantee that you don’t lose access to the stations you count on.

"What do I need to do to make sure I’m ready?"

- Do you have cable or satellite?

If you subscribe to cable, or satellite, and don’t use an antenna for any local television channels, you don’t need to do a thing. Cable and satellite will continue to work just as they always have, you’re covered.

- Do you use an antenna?

If you watch TV using an antenna, on your roof or even rabbit ears, or perhaps you use an antenna to watch local channels that aren’t available on your satellite service, then you need to take steps to insure the television you rely on doesn’t go away.

Option 1. The set-top box

The cheapest option is to buy a set-top box that adds a digital tuner to your old-reliable television. These boxes are available now at most electronics stores for $40-$70. Even better, the government has a coupon program to help you out and they’ll send you up to two (2) $40 coupons to be used towards the purchase of these boxes. (Click here for a complete list of available set-top boxes, and make sure you choose one with the "analog pass through" feature. More information on this below...)

Option 2. Buy a new TV

If you’ve purchased a new television in the last year or so, there’s a good chance your new set already has a digital tuner in it. Check your owner’s manual, or call the store where you purchased your set, and find out if it is equipped with a digital tuner; if it is, you’re ready to go. If you're heading out to buy a new set, make sure it has a digital tuner included.

Option 3. Subscribe to Cable or Satellite

If you have cable available in your area, or direct satellite, you can also choose to subscribe to those services. You’ll want to ask if they have your local broadcast networks available, as some of them do not in some areas of Montana. These are pay services, so there will be a monthly charge for subscribing to them, but they will continue to work with your old televisions.

"I’ve heard that translators may not change? What does this mean?"

This is true. Some of us in Montana watch some TV channels from translators, and those translators may or may not change to digital broadcasting right away. In general terms, you should assume at least some of your broadcast channels will transition to digital, and you should be prepared for the possibility that some of the channels you regularly watch may remain analog for a while. If you’re considering the set-top box option above, you will want to look for a feature of the set top box called “analog pass through.” Be sure to ask the retailer you’re buying your set top box from if this feature is included. Better yet, print out this list of acceptable boxes, and take it with you when you go shopping.

Time to help your neighbor!

We at MontanaPBS are very concerned that all Montanans that rely on our service make the transition smoothly. As you are now among the informed, we would ask that you consider your friends, neighbors, and family members. Ask yourself who you know that may require a bit of help. The coupon program makes this very affordable, but it does require that you apply for a coupon, purchase a set-top box and install it. We are asking our viewers to do what we in Montana always do, help out our neighbors. Each U.S. household is entitled to two (2) coupons; if you don’t need yours, consider applying for them anyway, redeem them for the boxes, and give them to a friend, school, or care facility. Encourage others to do the same. Together, we’ll make sure everyone still has MontanaPBS on February 18th, 2009!

For more information watch the ABCs of HDTV below. A 30 minute informational video answering many questions about the Digtial Transition. This includes the history of the television industry, why this transition is happening, as well as information about this new technology and how it enhances your television viewing experience.