As of June 12th 2009, television has gone digital.

By law, full-power television stations nationwide have begun broadcasting exclusively in a digital format.

The Arizona Attorney General’s Office and Arizona Broadcasters Association (ABA) worked together to make sure that all Arizonans were prepared to make this switch smoothly and safely.  Over 369,580 Arizona households had to make some modifications in order to continue receiving their television signal after the DTV transition.  The following tips should help you understand the transition to DTV and how to avoid falling victim to scam artists selling expensive or unnecessary or equipment.

Tips to assist you in the transition to DTV

If you subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay television service, you are already equipped for the digital transition. You do not need to take any additional steps to receive your television signal.

Consumers who receive free, over-the-air broadcasting signals through a set-top or roof-top antenna can still use an over-the-air antenna to receive their signal.  If you recently purchased your television, check to see whether it is a digital television set. If so, then you, too, are equipped and do not need to take any additional steps.

If you receive your signal through an antenna and do not have a digital ready television set, you need to make of the following modifications:

• Purchase a DTV converter box at your local electronic retailer. The federal government is offering two $40 coupons per household towards the purchase of the converter boxes. Details about the coupon program are available on the National Association of Broadcaster’s official DTV Web site, www.dtvanswers.com, or by calling, toll free, 1-888-DTV-2009. Please note that the federal government will not re-issue lost or expired coupons.
• Purchase a digital TV set – a TV set with a built-in digital tuner.
  Subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay TV service. To see if all desired local broadcast stations are carried by that service, check with your local service provider for details.

Avoiding Frauds and Scams

The changeover to digital television was a smooth transition here in Arizona. But all consumers should be alert to unscrupulous businesses and scam artists trying to take advantage of people confused by the transition.

The Attorney General’s Office recommends consumers who have not yet switched to digital television take the following steps to protect themselves:

• Purchase converter boxes from a reputable electronics retailer. Be wary of vendors selling expensive converter equipment or installation packages. Most converter boxes retail for between $40 and $70 and contain instructions for self-installation.
• Do not obtain converter box coupons second hand or purchase them from someone trying to sell unused coupons. They only way to be certain you are receiving a legitimate coupon is to obtain it from the federal government. This can be done at www.DTV2009.com or by calling, toll-free, 888.DTV.2009.
  Setting up a converter box should be simple and quick for most consumers. If you do wish have assistance, be careful when inviting someone to do work in your home. Always compare the fees of several service providers, check references and agree on a price in writing before having any work done in your home.
• The DTV transition affects television only. It does not impact how you receive radio broadcasts or access the Internet.
• Understand the transition and the choices available to you. The federal government provides a great deal of information on the DTV transition at www.dtvanswers.com.

Any consumers who feel they have been victims of a fraud or scam should file a complaint online or call 602.542.5763.

Resources

Arizona Public Media: Digital Transition

DTV Transition

Digital TV Transition: What You Need to Know about DTV

Digital Television Transition and Public Safety

Federal Trade Commission Guide for Consumers