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. Note: Some TVs 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.
TVs manufactured after March 1, 2007: By law, all television sets manufactured for sale in the U.S. after March 1, 2007 must contain a digital tuner (NTSC tuner). TVs labled as containing a digital or NTSC tuner do not require a converter box.
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?
