As of June 2009, all full-power TV stations in the United States have ceased to broadcast in analog format and have gone completely digital. This does not mean that analog televisions not connected to cable or satellite are incapable of receiving a digital signal, but a digital converter box and high-powered antenna are required in order to make broadcasts viewable.

Buying Digital Converter Boxes

Most electronics retailers carry several digital converter box models. The boxes generally cost between $40 and $70 as of 2010, and offer several different features. These features don't vary widely from model to model, but some boxes include more extensive remote control functions or onscreen viewing guides than others. The picture quality does vary somewhat between brands, so be sure to check product reviews of any model you're considering. "Consumer Reports" is a good resource for professional reviews, though user reviews on sites like Amazon.com can be helpful as well.

Installing Digital Converter Boxes

Hooking a digital converter box to your analog television isn't difficult and is similar to connecting a DVD player or VCR. You'll connect your high-powered antenna to the box's input and then run an RCA or coaxial cable from the box's output to the TV's input. After that, it's a matter of following the directions specified in the digital converter box's owner's manual to set the time and program channels.

Improving Reception

If you were using an antenna to receive an analog signal, you might be familiar with the pitfalls of poor reception. Unlike the haziness and snow that accompanied analog broadcasting though, digital TV can get choppy or disappear entirely, leaving the screen blank. If this occurs, try repositioning your antenna, moving it away from other objects or just raising it to a higher plane.

Source:

DTV Answers: Converter Box Details

DTV.gov: The Digital TV Transition

More Information:

Consumer Reports: DTV converter box guide