Analog TV broadcasting in the US was replaced by digital in 2009, and those without digital cable or satellite need a converter box. Cable and satellite subscribers may already have a box, while those who receive outdoor broadcasting need to buy a converter box, which can cost around $40. Converting to digital does not improve image quality, and to enjoy the best picture quality, it is best to purchase a TV that allows for high definition. The conversion has made digital TV prices more competitive and affordable for consumers.
In the United States, there has long been a determination that television broadcasting with analog signals was gradually disappearing. In 2009, the broadcast changed so that program information is now sent digitally. This has led many to wonder how to convert analogue to digital, since many people either didn’t want to buy a new digital TV or couldn’t afford one right away. There are actually several methods by which people can do this.
Most people who convert analog to digital do not have digital cable or satellite. Subscribers to most cable or satellite companies may have the easiest route because many people either get a conversion box with their subscription or pay a few extra dollars a month for this conversion service. A small box is attached to the TV which converts its ability to understand digital signals. There’s usually no need to go out and buy something that will make this transition, and people can talk to their cable provider about what exactly is needed. Those who were already receiving fairly advanced cable service via a box connected to their television may not need any conversion equipment at all.
Some people still get television service through outdoor broadcasting, and these people may need to do a little more to do the analog-to-digital conversion. They will have to search online or in most electronics stores to buy an analog to digital converter box. These range in price and start at around $40 US Dollars (USD) while others are five or six times that amount. It’s not clear that the more expensive ones are necessarily better, and many people will be perfectly happy with the cheaper model. In fact, up until the end of July 2009, people could get a government coupon for $40 USD, so they could buy a box. This program had an expiration date and was only meant to help people transition.
It should be noted that converting from analog to digital will not result in greatly improved image quality. For people to enjoy digital TV in all its glory, it is best to purchase a TV that allows for high definition (ED) or high definition (HD). Standard definition is about the same as most high quality analog sets. Conversion simply means changing the way a TV perceives signals, but not how it places them on screen. Fortunately, for many interested in enjoying the best picture quality available with digital, this conversion appears to be having a positive effect on digital TV prices, and prices appear to finally become competitive and more affordable for the average consumer.
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