ANSWERS: 1
  • If you are still using an analog TV and don't have a converter, all you will see on your local channels is snow. This is the result of the 2009 digital transition, which requires all over-the-air TV stations to broadcast only in digital format. To keep up with the news in your area or your daytime soaps, you'll need a digital tuner. Luckily, it is relatively simple to identify a digital TV set, or DTV.

    Check the Manual

    If you held onto your owner's manual, now is the time to dig it out. Look for any mention of "ATSC." This stands for "Advanced Television Systems Committee" and because this organization sets the technical standards for DTVs, all DTVs carry this notation. Other tell-tale signs include mention of a digital or QAM tuner.

    Check the Set

    Without a manual, your alternative is to look at your TV set. Generally speaking, most DTVs are noticeably wider than high to accommodate the 16:9 aspect ratio. You can also look for the phrases "Digital Tuner Built-In" or "Integrated Digital Tuner" somewhere on the TV. The word "Receiver" may take the place of "Tuner." Other markings that would indicate your TV is digital include "ATSC," DTV" or "HDTV" (high definition TV).

    Think Back

    If your TV is rather new, there is a good chance it is digital. According to the FCC, "as of March 1, 2007, all television receivers shipped in interstate commerce or imported into the United States must contain a digital tuner." Additionally, after May 25, 2007, the FCC required retailers to mark analog-only TVs very conspicuously. So if your TV was purchased during or after the summer of 2007 and you don't remember a big note on the shelf warning that the TV would require a converter box, your TV is very likely digital.

    Call the Experts

    If all else fails and you still don't know if your TV is digital, write down the name of the manufacturer and the model number. This information is generally found on the back of the TV, near the serial number. Call your local electronics store or the manufacturer, then, using the model number, they should be able to tell you if the TV is digital. Alternatively, run the model number through a search on the manufacturer's website, and the product specifications may be available.

    Source:

    DTV For Me: How do I tell if I have a digital TV set?

    Whyy TV: Get Ready for Digital TV

    FCC Consumer Facts

    More Information:

    DTV Transition: Is Your TV a DTV?

Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC

Answerbag | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy