How do I know if I already have a digital TV (DTV)?
If your television set is labeled as “analog” or “NTSC,” and is NOT labeled as containing a digital tuner, it most likely contains an analog tuner only.
If your TV was built before 1998: Almost every TV set made before 1998 was a traditional analog set.
Projection TVs manufactured between 1998 and 2004: Only a limited percentage of projection TV sets (and generally only those 42 inches in diameter or larger) included digital tuners before 2004.
TVs manufactured 2004 and after: Your chances of having a built-in digital tuner improve dramatically. Many of the TV sets sold at popular electronics stores feature digital tuners that will work after February 17, 2009.
The problem is, some of the TV’s manufactured from 2004 to 2006 were advertised as “HD-ready” or “HDTV monitor” sets. That means they can display digital and high-definition signals, but they need help getting those signals in the first place. You’ll still need a special converter or a cable TV connection.
See the following related articles and reader questions for help on determining if you already have digital TV:
I have a Magnavox TV with a Magnavox video cassette recorder, will I need a converter box?
If I Have Cable Do I Need A Converter Box?
Will I Need A Digital Converter Box For The VCR if I have a Digital TV?
