If you have an RV or a boat with an analog TV set, you will need to take action before the
Digital Transition
on February 17, 2009 if you want to continue to receive free over-the-air TV.
After February 2009, all full-power TV stations must switch to all digital broadcasting. That means that if you receive TV signals with an antenna and have an analog TV set without a digital tuner (
click here to determine if you do
), you will not be able to receive the new digital signals.
Buy a
converter box
to use with your existing Analog TV set.
A digital to analog converter box changes the new digital TV signal into an analog signal so your TV can display the broadcast. The government has set up a
coupon program
that allows all households in America to apply for up to two $40 coupons towards the purchase of up to two converter boxes.
Many recreational vehicles only have 12-volt power available. If this is your case, you may want to buy a converter box that is adaptable to 12-volts. Check our
comparison chart
for the boxes are 12-volt adaptable.
How do I hook up a 12V converter box in my RV?
Because most TV sets are built into trailers, campers and boats, there is a space issue. The converter box needs to be placed near the TV set and a power outlet.
Please keep in mind that not all TV stations are required to switch to all digital.
Low-power and translator
stations can remain analog. It is a good idea for RVers who vacation all over the country, to buy a converter box with
analog pass-through
so you can receive both analog and digital channels.
RVers that are used to watching snowy channels with poor sound, interference and limited programs should enjoy the new digital signals. With Digital TV, not only will you get a clear picture and better sound, you will also be able to receive local channels, weather, news, PBS and more.
On the other hand, the biggest problem with digital reception is in the "fringe areas". In these areas, analog TV reception will sometimes still be able to receive a snowy but watchable picture with sound. In these same areas, a Digital TV set or an analog TV using a converter box may get not receive any picture at all. Unfortunately, Digital TV is
all or nothing
.
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