What is DTV?

 

Digital television (DTV) is an innovative type of over-the-air broadcasting technology that enables TV stations to provide dramatically clearer pictures and better sound quality.

DTV is more efficient and more flexible than the traditional way of broadcasting known as analog. For example, DTV makes it possible for stations to broadcast multiple channels of free programming all at once (called multicasting), instead of broadcasting one channel at a time. DTV technology can also be used to deliver future interactive video and data services that analog technology can't provide.

 

What is the DTV transition?

 

The DTV transition is the switchover from analog, the traditional method of transmitting television signals, to exclusively digital broadcasting of free television programming.

The transition from analog to digital television represents the most significant advancement in television technology since color TV was introduced. The DTV transition will be completed on June 12, 2009, as set by Congress.

Full-power television stations have been preparing for the transition to DTV since the late 1990s, when they began building digital facilities and airing digital channels alongside regular analog broadcasts. Today, 1,624 out of 1,762 full-power television stations nationwide offer digital programming.

 

Why is America switching to DTV?

 

DTV is not only a more efficient way to broadcast, and it will also free up the airwaves for a variety of new services. DTV provides crystal-clear pictures and sound, more channels and even free, over-the-air high-definition television (HDTV) for consumers who have HD television sets. DTV will also allow more services than ever before with free, broadcast television.

How do I switch?

a) Buy a digital-to-analog converter box

b) Buy a television with a digital tuner

c) Connect to a cable system in your area

What is a converter box and how do I connect it to my television?

 

A DTV converter box is an easy-to-install electronic device that hooks up to your analog television set and over-the-air antenna. The box converts the digital television signal into an analog format, making it viewable on your analog TV set. The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is issuing each household up to two $40 coupons to help defray the cost of converter boxes.

 

1) Converter Box Coupon - Apply

 

2) Converter Box:

 

        a) Where can I purchase a digital-to-analog converter box?

                1) Wal-Mart

                2) Best Buy

                3) Kmart

                4) Sears

                5) Target

                6) RadioShack

                7) or Visit this Website

 

        b) How do I hook up my new converter box to my television?

                1) Converter Box Quick Start Guide - Adobe File

                2) Digital Tips - Florence Henderson - Adobe File

What kind of antenna do I need for the converter box?

 

You will still need an antenna to continue watching free, over-the-air television after the transition to DTV.

 

Generally, the same antenna that currently provides good quality reception on an analog TV set will also provide good DTV reception, but this is not always the case. The type of antenna you need for digital reception depends on several factors, including how far you are from the transmitting station, where your antenna is located and in which frequency band (VHF or UHF) the stations are that you want to watch.

 

After February 17, 2009, some stations will be moving to a different frequency band, so you should check whether that is the case in your area before deciding which type of antenna you need.

 

To learn which frequency band the stations you watch are in, type in your address and zip code at www.antennaweb.org. This is also a helpful resource for finding an outdoor antenna that will continue giving you free local broadcast programming.

 

Other helpful links for the Digital Transition:

    1) http://www.dtvanswers.com/

    2) https://www.dtv2009.gov/

    3) http://www.digitaltips.org/

    4) http://www.dtvtransition.org/

    5) http://www.ceretailers.org/

    6) http://www.getreadyfordigitaltv.com/

    7) http://www.ncta.com/

WABG ABC 6 licensed in Greenwood, Mississippi

intends to permanently cease

its analog signal on

February 17, 2009.

Notification of Termination:

 

    Although the national digital television transition date has changed to June 12, 2009, WABG-TV licensed to Greenwood, Mississippi, permanently ceased its analog television service at 11:59pm on February 17, 2009. 

    If you watch WABG on an analog TV with rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna, you can continue to receive the station by using a digital-to-analog converter box, subscribing to cable, or buying a TV with a digital tuner. WABG’s ABC digital signal can be viewed over-the-air on channel 6.1 and WABG’s Fox digital signal can be seen over-the-air on channel 6.2.  

    Digital converter boxes may be purchased at electronic retail stores such as Radio Shack and Audio Central.  The converter boxes are also available at Wal-Mart, Kmart, and Sears.   

    For more information concerning the DTV transition, converter boxes, and how you can continue to receive the station, go to wabg.com, call us at 662-332-0949, or write us at 849 Washington Ave., Greenville, MS  38701.or at 805 West Park Avenue, Suite 5F, Greenwood, MS  38930. 

DTV HELPLINE ~~ 888-388-2009

February 4, 2009

 

    The House of Representatives passed a law changing the date of the DTV Transition to June 12, 2009. President O'bama has stated publicly he will sign the legislation in the coming days.

    The new legislation provides flexibility for local stations in adjusting to the new date. So while Congress is giving stations more time to make the switch to all digital broadcasting, our station will be making the switch on February 17, 2009, and we will do everything possible ensure our viewers are ready.

    If you have any questions about this, please contact one of the following numbers:

 

DTV Answers ~~ 888-388-2009