Next year at this time, broadcast television – the T.V. you get over the air through rabbit ears – switches from analog to digital.
Thanks to a public awareness campaign, the National Association of Broadcasters says a recent study indicates 79 percent of Americans are aware of the change.
But just ask around and you quickly find out that knowing something is coming doesn't mean knowing or understanding what that thing is.
"I've heard about it, but not very specific," said one New Yorker. "I'm not very into the technological aspect of it."
"I have an HD set, now that's got to be digital, doesn't it?" said another.
Next year at this time, broadcast television – the T.V. you get over the air through rabbit ears – switches from analog to digital. Adam Balkin has more.
A Consumer Reports study shows that many who know about the switch just know that something will happen to change TV next year on February 17th. What exactly that change is – well, that's what confuses people.
"People who have cable or satellite or telecom provider don't have to worry about losing their television signal," said Gary Belis of the Television Bureau of Advertising. "People who have a new digital television set don't have to worry about losing their television signals. Basically anyone who has an analog set, basically a set bought over two years ago not hooked up to one of these services, is going to lose their broadcast services February 19th unless they do something."
Those who will lose their services have three options on how to get their signals back. The first is to get cable or satellite or telecom. The second choice is to get a new T.V.
Some people are confused into thinking that they have to go high definition to go digital, but that's not the case. In fact, those who want to save some money can still get a standard-definition T.V. set, since all current models accept that digital signal, and they cost a fraction of what you'll pay for an HDTV.
The third option is to pick up a digital converter boxes and connect it to your current T.V. They're expected in stores within the next few weeks for between $50 and $80, though the government will pick up $40 of that tab with a coupon you'll be able to download or order through the mail.
For more information on that and the entire DTV switch you can either call 1-888-225-5322 or go to www.dtv.gov.