Consumers React To Forced Digital TV Conversion
I remember in one of the futuristic movies we once watched, a scene in which a little girl was amazed her parents were once able to watch free television. Back then we all laughed, because we could still get free television. However, consumers are now concerned that free television is becoming a thing of the past and many are not happy about it. Due to FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations all full-power broadcast television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and begin broadcasting only in digital. This transition will take effect on February 17, 2009.
Consumers are upset that they do not have a choice in this major transition. In our democratic society we were not given the opportunity to vote on this very impactful legislation. We have only been informed that this is now the law and we will not be able to get television signals into our home without special costly equipment. You may read that these boxes are not very expensive; however to those on a low or fixed income the fact they even have to buy one is unrealistic.
Yes, the government has been so very kind in offering the nation a $40 coupon for these boxes. However, these coupons are only good for 90 days from when they are mailed out to you. As many of us know in the condition of our current postal system we may not get these coupons for a minimum of two or three weeks from when we order them. We are only allowed to order two coupons per household. If you have more than two television sets in your house or if your converter boxes become damaged then you will have to pay full price for these required boxes that have been priced between $49-$70. According to the lettering on the coupon it is only good for certain models of boxes. Customers are having difficulty finding these particular models in the stores in which they shop.
We are living in a time of financial uncertainty. The stock market is unstable, the oil prices are fluctuating with shortages in some areas, and most importantly the American dollar is no longer backed by precious metals as in the past; such as gold, silver or even copper. We are in the middle of a possible multi-billion dollar bail-out of our bank system. Where will they get this money? Possibly they will just print more. There again, many people would rather the government let them decide where this extra money should go. We should have the choice whether to spend it on paying off our mortgages, bank loans, credit cards, etc. But, alas once again we as the American democratic people have no vote in the matter. Of course, we understand that we can’t be consulted on every issue that comes before the house or senate committee. But, the financial issues that will affect us personally we want as patriotic American citizens to have the right to decide our futures. We can only put so much trust in the politicians we elect to office, as many promises are made in campaigns and yet not kept.
For those who have already bought the digital-analog converter boxes, they have found that there are pros and cons to these boxes. As with any new technology coming out, there may be problems that are not initially known. Some customers are complaining they cannot get a signal in their area with the new boxes. On the positive side, the majority of customers can get a signal and are finding out they are getting more channels with better quality. Many customers may not be immediately affected by the new change. The majority of customers who are paying for service already through cable or satellite, feel that this transition will not affect them. Direct TV does advertise that their services are already completely digital. They do mention that if you get your local channels thru an antenna depending on the type of receiver you have you will; have to buy the new converter box, upgrade your package or do without your local channels. However, not all of the cable and satellite providers are claiming to be completely digital or express confidence in the service their customers will receive after the transition. Some companies seem to have the wait and see mentality that is also shared with a percentage of consumers. If you are not certain what stand is currently being taken by your specific provider, it is recommended that you contact them personally.
Consumers are now faced with the possibility, of having to pay for television shows regardless of their financial condition or do without television all together. In a society where we have become accustomed to watch television on a daily basis, this would be a drastic change for many. Housebound consumers, poverty stricken consumers for example depend on the television to bring some joy to their existence. Also a concern is that more of today’s youth population will turn to the streets for entertainment if they can’t get it thru television. In conclusion, with a presidential election just around the corner bringing with it all the implications and uncertainty of a new president coming into office, consumers are definitely concerned about the forced transition.
Written by acwriter
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