A year from tomorrow, February 18, 2009, the traditional, analog broadcast television signals across the U.S.A. will be turned off. (See: Digital Television Transition).

If you’re like me and rely on over-the-air television signals, you will need to invest in a digital-to-analog converter box, or a nifty new television built to receive digital broadcast signals, or subscribe to cable/satellite television.

The estimated price of the digital to analog converter box is $75. The federal government is providing $40 coupons towards your purchase. Request a coupon: https://www.dtv2009.gov/ApplyCoupon.aspx According to the coupon request form, TV converter boxes are not expected to be available in retail stores until late February or early March. You should sign up now before they are gone (limited supply); however you will not receive your coupon until after converter boxes are available in stores. The Coupon will expire 90 days after the date it is issued.

The federal department responsible for the program has a web site that provides more information regarding the coupon program, such as rules and the coupon request form. https://www.dtv2009.gov/