SENIOR MOMENT

By BETTY MUNSEY/Columnist

Keith Humphreys, news anchor for Roanoke’s WDBJ news, announces that “your TV will never be the same” as a lead-in to catch our attention about nationwide changes from analog to digital television reception beginning in February 2009. Behind him on the colorful broadcast set is a large digital countdown screen showing the number of days, hours, minutes and seconds remaining before the change becomes effective. It reminds me of the big hubbub prior to the arrival of 2000 and the 21st century.
Jay Warren, Channel 10’s anchorman, reminds us that “42 million TVs will go dark” on Feb. 17, 2009. So what are we supposed to do to prevent this from occurring? If you depend upon an antenna on your roof or perhaps rabbit ears draped over the TV, read on. If you receive your television programming by way of cable or satellite TV, go fix yourself a sandwich and don’t worry about the following.
Our government has assured consumers that they will take care of our questions about this mandatory switch to digital television. We’re invited to either call 1-888-225-5322 or visit http://www.dtv.gov for detailed information. The government is also promising consumers two $40 coupons per household to go toward the purchase of two converter boxes, but you can only use one coupon per box. The converter boxes convert the digital signal back to analog for those televisions without built-in digital capabilities. Each converter box sells for $50 to $75 depending upon your retailer, so the consumers are still going to have to foot part of the bill. As with all good things, there are a limited number of coupons available. So if you want one, don’t delay in applying while knowing that the coupons expire in 90 days after their issue date.
Digital reception is supposedly a giant leap ahead of analog service with better quality pictures, superior sound and less interference.  Antennas have been known to pick up interference from low-flying airplanes, adverse weather conditions and even lawn mowers passing close to the antennae.
If our television set is really old, it may be more economical to buy a new television with digital capacity. The government Web page reminds us that “this converter box, much like your cable box, will allow you to receive a picture, but it won’t be able to show high-definition pictures or give you access to other digital services.  To experience the full benefits of digital television, you will need a digital television set.”  The Web site also states that “as of March 1, 2007, all new TVs must include digital tuners….. Retailers may continue to sell analog-only devices from existing inventory.” Beware of buying an older TV priced to sell at a very low price as it’s probably analog only. The Web page reminds us that “analog TVs will continue to work with cable, satellite, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders, video games consoles and other devices for many years.”
Seniors have faced many challenges more complex than changing our TV reception. We will survive this if we are willing to ask questions and accept offers of help.
A retired Extension agent, Betty Munsey lives and farms in Bland County.