DTV Answers: Where are the Converter Boxes? Weak Signal? Can I Install The Converter Box Now?
In an effort to answer all of the recent questions about DTV and the digital transition, TVConversionHelp will start combining email questions into one single answer/post.
Question: I applied for and received two coupons for the converters. It plainly states on the coupons that they expire on 07/11/2008. Today, July 9, we attempted to purchase the converters. When we did find a store where they were available, the clerk scanned the cards and told us they were no good.
Answer: Demand has really exceeded supply with these converter boxes! The last 5 emails I’ve received have been about the lack of available options for purchasing converter boxes as well. My only suggestion as of right now would be to possibly purchase from an online retailer.
In your case, it’s probably already too late. You’re going to have to try contacting someone at www.dtv2009.gov with your complaint about the coupons.
Question: Based on what I have seen of DTV over the two months I have been trying to switch over from analog, it stinks on ice.
After I put the converter boxes (Zenith DTT900s) in line with our two television sets, roughly half the stations came up as “no signal” and the signal put out by the rest was so inconsistent that the signal strength bar would go from maybe the 1/3rd point to marginally good and back every few seconds. First thing to go is the audio. Next, the picture freezes and then breaks down into pixels.
Is this all I can expect from DTV?
Answer: I feel your pain! We live in the metro area of Arizona, and have to physically get up and move around the antenna placed behind our television cabinet every once in a while to receive a good signal for digital television. This next weekend I’m planning to route a coax cable to our attic, and relocating the antenna up there as well. Lots of work for a supposedly “easy” change over.
According to most online news articles/reports, research indicates 54 percent of OTA households may have to upgrade their antennas to continue receiving an off-air signal post transition and it looks like there are no plans to increase the signal strength coming from the broadcast towers. In fact, a story from Boston.com is claiming that cable and satellite service providers are going to benefit greatly after the Digital Television switchover.
Unfortunately, there is no single fix all solution for the signal strength issue. Your best bet will be trial and error with placement of antennas.
Question: Can I install a digital converter box now? Have trouble getting to back of the TV set (I’m 74 yo) and I don’t want to go through it twice.
Answer: Hello, yes, if you install your converter now, you can begin to watch Digital Television immediately.
Most all TV stations and cable providers have already begun broadcasting both analog and digital television, which allows consumers the choice to upgrade ahead of the February 17th, 2009 date. Recent articles are reporting close to 100% of all TV networks are broadcasting in both Analog and Digital.
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