What is Digital Television?
DTV: A Federal Government Mandate for 2009. Here's what you need to know to be prepared for the Digital TV switch.

By law, television stations nationwide must switch from the old method of transmitting TV signals known as analog to digital television (DTV) on February 17, 2009. Television sets connected to cable or satellite will not be affected, and will continue to receive programming after that date. But those television sets not connected to cable or satellite, or without a DTV converter box, will not receive any television signal after the DTV switch.

What is DTV?
Digital television (DTV) is an innovative new type of over-the-air broadcasting technology that enables TV stations to provide dramatically clearer pictures and better sound quality.

DTV is more efficient and more flexible than the traditional broadcast technology known as analog. For example, DTV makes it possible for stations to broadcast multiple channels of free programming simultaneously (called multicasting), instead of broadcasting only one channel at a time. DTV technology can also be used to provide future interactive video and data services that are not possible with analog technology.

How can I see watch KSHB as a digital broadcast?
KSHB-DT, available on digital Channel 41.1, is a free, over-the-air broadcast. There is no need for a cable service or satellite dish. All you need is an HDTV television or a digital tuner and a TV antenna, the same kind you've used for your old analog signal. You can check with your local TV retailer for more advanced "smart" over-the-air antennas as well.

KSHB's digital signal and HD programming is a free service. Any program that you enjoy currently on NBC Action News on cable or satellite in the analog form is also available FREE over-the-air on KSHB-DT Channel 41.1, along with our 24-hour weather channel, NBC Action Weather Plus, on digital channel 41.2.

KSHB's digital programing is also on local cable and satellite systems.

What other extra services can I expect from HDTV?
Being a digital format, your HDTV set is able to interface with the Internet and your home computer. You can merely hook up the DVI output from your computer to your large screen display to view your computer’s output.

You’ll also receive other non-traditional programming, such as TV schedule guide information and other data services such as stock tickers, sports scores, news headlines and the like. Some broadcasters may choose to compress their digital signals into lower resolution, or a combination of both HD and SD programs (like public broadcasting) resulting in more channel streams.

What equipment do I need?
If you currently receive free over-the-air television programming on an analog television set, you will need a DTV converter box to continue to receive television service after February 17, 2009. DTV converter boxes will be available in early 2008. To help consumers cover the cost of the converter box, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will be issuing up to two converter box coupons valued at $40 each to households in early 2008. Information about the DTV converter box coupon program is available at www.ntia.doc.gov.

For free reception, you'll need an antenna and an HDTV compatible television set or projector with built-in digital tuner. If the tuner is not built-in, you'll need to purchase a separate set-top digital tuner box. Ask your local electronics retailers about availability. Some receivers are bundled with cable or satellite services as well. Depending on your location, you may need either a small set-top antennae or a larger unit installed outside. Be aware that an HDTV signal is an all-on or all-off signal. Unlike the old analog signals, a digital signal does not get weaker or stronger as you tune it in; either it's all there or, not there at all, depending on distance and signal strength.

The way you position your antenna is important. To help you receive the HDTV signal, you should know that KSHB’s transmitter is located just north of the Grandview Triangle at 87th and I-435. Go to www.antennaweb.org to find specific directional informaton for where you live.

How do I switch?
You can prepare for the transition to digital television by following one of three simple steps:

1. Purchase a DTV converter box that will convert the digital signal into analog for an existing television set.
   
   The DTV converter box, sometimes referred to as a set-top box, is an electronic device that makes the new digital signal viewable on an older "analog" television set. DTV converter boxes will be available for purchase in early 2008, and are expected to cost between $50 and $70. To help consumers cover the cost of the converter box, the federal government will offer up to two converter box coupons valued at $40 each to households beginning in early 2008. Each coupon may be used toward the purchase of a single DTV converter box and the coupon program will be administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) www.ntia.doc.gov.
   
   You will still need an over-the-air antenna in addition to the converter box to receive a digital signal on your analog television set. Your current antenna should work the same as before.
   
   Click here to find out how to get your own converter box.
2. Purchase a new television set with a built-in digital tuner.
   
   Another option you may choose is to upgrade to a new television set with a built-in digital tuner. As with older sets, you will need an over-the-air antenna that provides quality reception of over-the-air analog television signals to pick up free digital broadcast programming from local stations. Before deciding to purchase a new digital TV, you should make sure your current TV doesn't already have a built-in digital tuner. Most sets sold in the last few years that are larger than 27 inches will likely have a digital tuner.
   
   To check whether your TV set can receive over-the-air digital broadcast signals, take a look at your owner's manual or look on the set for an indication that it has a built-in Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) tuner. You can also go to the manufacturer's Web site and check the capabilities of the set by manufacturer model number.
3. Subscribe to cable, satellite or a telephone company television service provider.
   
   All of these services will allow you to receive digital television signals on your analog television set. No additional equipment is required if you decide to go this route. However, be sure to check that the pay service you choose carries all of the program services provided by the local broadcast stations.
   
   Visit DTV Answers for more on the DTV switch.