About High Definition TV Converter Box Coupons
On June 12, 2009, all high-power broadcasting stations were required to begin broadcasting exclusively in a digital format instead of analog. Because not all televisions were equipped to receive a digital signal, the U.S. government instituted a coupon program that would provide all U.S. households two coupons toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes.
Other People Are Reading
-
Introduction
-
The Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005 mandated that by February 18, 2009 all high-power broadcasting stations would have to broadcast in digital. This change would leave many viewers with analog-only televisions unable to receive a signal. To help those viewers, the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) instituted the TV Converter Box Coupon Program.
How it Worked
-
From January 1, 2008 to July 31, 2009, all U.S. households were eligible for two coupons--up to a $40 value--toward the purchase of up to two digital-to-analog converter boxes. Viewers applied online with the NTIA for the coupons, which were then mailed to households.
-
Conclusion
-
The last day to apply for coupons was July 31,2009. Currently, there are no longer any active coupons. Further, digital-to-analog converter box retailers are no longer able to accept federal coupons for the sale of converters.
-
References
- Photo Credit old television image by inacio pires from Fotolia.com
