KIXE Switches to digital television in August 2008!

GET READY... for dramatically better television! The switch to digital TV is coming. AUGUST 2008. As you may have heard, the federal government has mandated significant changes for the entire television broadcasting industry. By law, all American television stations must switch their broadcasting to digital by February 17, 2009. But because of winter snows, for KIXE, the change will come in August 2008. At that time, free over-the-air television (the way many of you now receive your TV signal) goes digital. You will notice crystal clear picture and sound – and receive additional free broadcast TV channels, including KIXE’s current program schedule, including programs in high definition (HDTV), and CREATE, which is already available to digital TV viewers. But, it will require action on your part or you won’t get any TV signal at all. If you subscribe to cable or satellite, you won't need to worry about the switch. But, your picture will not be as clear as if you receive your signal free, over-the-air. Other television sets will not receive a television signal after the date of the switchover. To keep getting a signal, you will need a new digital television or a digital converter box for your old set. You don't have to wait for the digital conversion, you can start receiving digital quality picture and sound and additional channels now without having to sign up for cable or satellite. How to keep getting free TV: • Purchase a converter box for each television in your home. To help you make the switch, the federal government is establishing a coupon program. Each household will be eligible for two $40 coupons, each good toward the purchase of one converter box. You can apply for the coupons by visiting https://www.dtv2009.gov/ or by calling 1-888-388-2009. You will receive coupons and a list of retailers in our area who accept the coupons and carry the certified boxes as soon as they are available in our area. • Purchase a new TV set with a built-in digital tuner. All TV’s produced after March 1, 2007 have them. You can get some digital set at some retailers for as low as $99. KIXE is here to help you make the switch. We’re committed to helping you make the switch as painlessly as possible. Many of your questions will be answered here. If you still have questions, please call KIXE at 530-243-5493 or the TV Converter Box Coupon Program at 1-888-388-2009 to get help. Where to get more information The National Association of Broadcasters site is one of the best to explain the switch http://www.dtvanswers.com/ PBS also has a site with useful information www.pbs.org/digitaltv/ The Federal Communication Commission Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program www.ntiadtv.gov C|Net's "Quick Guide" to the "DTV transition from analog to digital TV" http//reviews.cnet.com/dtv-transition/?tag=bubbl_1 For specific information please click one of the choices below.