In 1998, the Federal Communications Commission mandated that all television stations convert to the new digital broadcasting standard. This is one of the most significant developments in television since the advent of color TV in the 1950s. The entire country is scheduled to be broadcasting digital signals by 2006.

Why Change To Digital?

The analog system television stations have been running on for 50 years is starting to show its age. As technology becomes more advanced, the shortcomings of analog technology become more evident. Some of the disadvantages include: limited resolution and color contrast, interference from other radio sources and signal distortion. Digital television (DTV) will alleviate these shortcomings by allowing a clearer picture that better suits the larger, more technologically advanced television sets in people's homes.

What is Digital Television?

Digital television is the new "over-the-air" standard that will be used in all television markets across the country by 2006. DTV will allow television stations to provide new and higher quality services to their viewers, like multicasting, the ablity to "split" one channel into two. For example, you could watch "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" on channel 25A and pay-per-view on channel 25B. Other new features include:

• Theatre-like screen.
• CD quality sound.
• Clearer image.
• Sharper color.
• Distortion free signal with no hiss or snow.
• Interactive television.

What is HDTV?

HDTV is high definition television, which is a high-resolution format that transmits images in a wide-screen theatre-like format. This screen is rectangular shaped, which is the way your eyes naturally see. It also doesn't suffer any of the problems of the current TV system.

Will I have to buy a new TV set to receive digital television?

In order to enjoy the full benefits of DTV, such as wide screen and better picture quality, you will have to purchase a new television set. Unfortunately, existing sets will not be able to display digital television images. However, less expensive converter boxes will be available that will allow you to watch DTV on your existing television.

Will new DTV sets be expensive?

Just as color sets were expensive when first introduced, DTV sets will be expensive at first. Like color TV sets, the prices should drop over time.

If I buy a new DTV set, will I still be able to see existing TV programming? Yes, DTV sets will be compatible with analog TV programming, so you will be able to receive all the programs you now receive on your current set.

This information provided in part by the Federal Communications Commission.