Digital TV Transition
KQED will be conducting several tests to allow viewers to know whether their television sets are ready for the transition to digital television. Please tune in on the following dates to see if you are ready:
Monday, January 12 at 11:59am (test will last 90 seconds)
Tuesday, February 3 at 6:15pm (test will last 90 seconds)
Are You Ready for
More Channels?
Clearer Picture?
Better Sound Quality?
No More Ghosting?
Here comes the Digital TV Transition.
On February 17, 2009, Television will be Changed Forever.
Are you Ready?
(For detailed information in Spanish, French, Cantonese, Tagalog and others, visit www.dtv2009.gov)
Welcome to Northern California Public Broadcasting's information center concerning the 2009 digital transition. All of our stations - KQED, KTEH, and KQET - are preparing for this historic transition and have created this resource guide to help you be prepared. Although call letters may differ, the information for all three stations is basically the same.
- What is digital television?
The picture you currently receive is based on a 60-year-old analog transmission system. The last major change came with the advent of color television in 1954. In December 1996, the FCC approved plans for a new era of television - digital television. In a digital system, images and sounds are captured and transmitted using the same digital technology found in computers. This digital revolution will not only dramatically improve the quality of the television picture, but also will make possible the over-the-air delivery of several simultaneous channels to viewers. Digital television makes it possible for us to offer high definition television and multicasting in standard definition television.
- Why more channels?
New multicasting technology allows KQED, KTEH, and KQET to broadcast several channels simultaneously. While current analog customers only receive one channel, KQED 9, for instance, as their primary public broadcasting channel, with the conversion to digital, viewers will receive capacity to multiply their offerings of the best of public broadcasting with our digital tier of channels.
KQED, KTEH and KQET viewers choices may include Life (cooking, travel, primetime encores); World (news and public affairs); V-me (Spanish language public broadcasting); Kids (the very best of programming for school-age children); and HD (high definition digital service.)
- Do I have to buy a new television set? Will I be able to watch DTV on my old set?
You can continue to use your older television set. But you will need to purchase a separate digital tuner or subscribe to an alternate program provider (such as cable or satellite) if you want to experience digital television. Bear in mind, however, that your older analog television set will not display digital programming with the clarity and quality of an up-to-date, digital set. To experience the full benefits of digital television, viewers will need new digital television sets.
In addition to our digital broadcasts, we will continue broadcasting an analog signal until February 2009. Congress and the FCC have mandated that all US television stations discontinue analog transmission at that time. Until that time, you can watch your favorite public television programs without having to purchase a new upgraded set or a separate digital tuner. If you make no actions to either subscribe to cable/satellite or purchase a digital converter box, you will lose your TV signal in February 2009.
To keep using your older analog television set after that date will require the purchase of a set top digital tuner or you may purchase programming from a cable or satellite provider. Alternately, you may choose to purchase a new digital television set with a tuner included.
- What is the analog cutoff date?
By February 17, 2009, all US television broadcasters must complete the transition to digital broadcasting and discontinue analog signal transmission.
- What is a set top digital converter box?
A set top digital tuner is a separate accessory that will receive digital signals and provide an output compatible with older analog television sets. This allows viewers to keep using older television sets with the benefit of seeing all the new over the air digital channels. The digital set top tuner is a small box with a remote control similar to the set top tuners made available by cable and satellite providers.
The new DTV converter boxes are available for purchase now, with most models costing between $50 and $70. There is a one-time cost for the box; it does
not require a monthly service fee. Funds are no longer available for the
digital transition coupon program established by the federal government.
There is a waiting list currently estimated to be about 6 weeks long, so
if funds do become available later, you will receive a coupon. The best
way to be put on the waiting list is to register at www.dtv2009.gov/, or
call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009) between 5am-9pm Pacific time. Should
anything change with the status of the government funding, we will update
this website accordingly. Feel free to check back for updates.
You will still need an over-the-air antenna to receive a picture. Please see information on antenna below.
The FCC has just released a consumer DTV Troubleshooting Guide for Digital to Analog Converter boxes and
Digital Television. This guide provides a connections checklist and tips on reception of digital signals.
It answers questions and provides tips to consumers who may be having difficulty receiving digital broadcast stations in specific areas.
Download the guide:
http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/troubleshootguide.pdf (PDF)
- Are all converter boxes alike? What do I look for?
Although all converter boxes perform a similar function, each does have different levels of sophistication in terms of signal, output, and other technical capabilities. We've found a good site that gives an overview of various boxes.
- How can I request my coupons?
Funds are no longer available for the digital transition coupon program established by the federal government. There is a waiting list currently estimated to be about 6 weeks long, so if funds do become available later, you will receive a coupon. The best way to be put on the waiting list is to register at www.dtv2009.gov/, or call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009) between 5am-9pm Pacific time. Should anything change with the status of the government funding, we will update this website accordingly. Feel free to check back for updates.
- Where can I purchase a digital converter box?
When you receive your coupons, you will also receive a list of local retailers, web retailers, and catalogs who accept the coupons. More than 14,000 brick-and-mortar stores have been certified to sell the boxes, including Best Buy; Circuit City; Kmart; Sam's Club; Wal-Mart; Sears, Roebuck; RadioShack; and Target. In addition, these retail outlets have all confirmed that they will accept the government-issued coupons. Other retailers will also be participating. Call your local retailer in advance of purchasing any items to confirm their availability and acceptance of the coupons.
- How do I install my converter box?
The FCC has made available several illustrated documents that should cover most converter box set-ups. Choose the diagram which best fits your needs:
Basic Guide to Setting Up Your Digital to Analog Converter Box (PDF)
Setting up your Digital-to-Analog Converter Box with a VCR (PDF)
Video Descriptions & the DTV transition (PDF)
Setting up your Digital-to-Analog Converter Box (basic with twin-lead antenna wire) (PDF)
- Will my current antenna work with a converter box or will I have to make an adjustment to receive a signal?
Because of the hilly geography of the Bay Area, there is no 'one size fits all' solution when it comes to the proper type of antenna and what type you'll need in order to continue to receive a signal. Antennas come in two basic varieties: UHF and VHF. For most converter boxes, you will need a UHF antenna. Antennas that are older than 10 years old are, most likely, VHF. While in some areas, you may be able to receive a signal with a VHF antenna, in some cases you will need to purchase a new antenna. While there are many types of antenna available, we are currently testing a small antenna that is reasonably priced to see if it will receive a signal from several test spots around the Bay Area where we are conducting our experiment. We have been working on this issue with a vendor who is set-up to talk to you about your specific needs and to find an equitable solution for your television viewing needs. Visit Antennas Direct for more information. We will be continually updating this site as we learn more. Please check back for updated information or utilize our DTV hotline for more information.
Remember: for the best signal, point your antenna configuration towards Sutro Tower in San Francisco.
- I already have cable/satellite. What do I need to do to convert to DTV?
If you are a subscriber to a cable or satellite service, you will not be affected and do not need to take any action. All cable systems differ. Call your local cable/satellite provider, if you have additional questions.
- How much do digital televisions cost? What should I look for?
Prices for digital televisions continue to drop. Cost varies widely depending on the size, the level of capability and the options provided. Some sets include analog and/or DTV tuners. Be sure that your set includes a digital tuner or expect to make alternate arrangements with a television provider such as cable or satellite.
To enjoy the highest quality HD picture, look for a set capable of displaying 1080 lines on the screen and a high resolution of at least 1366 x 768. Sets with higher contrast ratios will make the picture more crisp and realistic. Note that the labeling on some sets claim to be "HD compatible" while only having a limited display of 480 or 720 lines. Digital set top tuners for your older analog televisions are available now. Shop carefully and speak with a well-informed sales person. We recommend CNET for comparison reviews about the latest in television sets.
- I now have digital capability. How do I know what's on the digital channels?
Many television listings do not yet carry complete digital channel schedules. The most up-to-date schedule listings for KQED and KQET are available at our schedule pages. KTEH viewers can have up-to-date listings at KTEH. You can also use the on-screen program guides provided by your cable and satellite service or on your digital channels. Use the TV's users' manual to scan new available channels.
- What is high definition (HD) television?
Digital technology allows KQED, KTEH and KQET to broadcast programs in much higher quality and clarity than with analog television. Programs broadcast at the highest level of quality are referred to as High Definition or HD. With up-to-date television sets, viewers will be able to receive high-quality, crystal clear pictures on their televisions, which will be displayed in a wide screen format with CD-quality surround sound.
- What is standard definition (SD) television?
Standard Definition (SD) television is the basic digital television format closest to analog TV.
- Will I be able to continue to use my existing VCR with a DTV converter box for timed recordings?
Yes, but after the digital transition, you won't be be able to pick up over-the-air programs for recording from the tuner in the VCR, so the input to the VCR must be connected to the output of the DTV converter box. The tuner in the DTV converter box will need to be set to the desired channel to be recorded prior to the start of each recording period programmed into the VCR.
- I have radios that can receive TV signals and I am able to listen to TV programs over the radio. Will I still be able to continue to do this after Feb 17, 2009?
Some portable radios actually have a "TV BAND" that allows listening to a TV station but no picture display is included. Since analog television uses an audio transmission system which is similar to broadcast FM radio it was easy to build in this feature. The basic answer is that the radio will not receive television audio after Feb. 17, 2009. One could use a NTIA Coupon approved DTV converter box to continue receiving audio on the radio. The radio would be tuned to channel 3 or 4 to match the output of the DTV converter box. We think this situation would be very frustrating to use. The DTV converter box has menus that were designed to be viewed on a TV. Without viewing those menus tuning and setup will be difficult. The DTV converter box is not a portable device, it has a power cord. All the radios we have seen with a TV band are portable battery operated devices.
- I plan on purchasing a new TV set. What is the most Eco-friendly way of disposing of my old set?
KQED and its parent company, Northern California Public Broadcasting, are proud to be the only carbon-neutralized public broadcaster in the nation. We work to create a green home in the Bay Area.
Since 2005, Goodwill has operated an environmentally and socially responsible computer recycling and electronics recycling program. Their service is free and convenient for you to donate your computers and televisions, working or not. Goodwill accepts computers, computer accessories and televisions from residents and businesses at all donation sites.
Consumer Alert:
We have heard of incidents across the country where consumers were receiving incorrect information concerning this transition from retailers and cable providers. Know your facts:
1. If you already have cable or satellite service, you are covered and do not need to take any action.
2. If you are looking to purchase a digital converter box, you can continue to use your old television set. Some stores are utilizing an 'upsell' approach, hoping that you will purchase a new television. This is not necessary.
3. If you are purchasing a new television, make sure that the television is a digital television.
I have more questions.
If you have questions related to the digital transition, contact:
DTV Hotline (recorded information)
415.553.2860
KQED Member Services
member@kqed.org
415.553.2150
KQED Audience Services
audserv@kqed.org
415.553.2135
KTEH Member Services
member@kteh.org
408.795.5411
KTEH Audience Services
programming@kteh.org
408.795.5411
KQET Audience Services
(toll free) 866.870.2528
If you have additional questions concerning the digital conversion, visit DTV Answers
View our reports:
Please note: you will need to have the free Adobe Acrobat software installed on your computer in order to view the report.
Digital Conversion
KQED began broadcasting its digital signal Monday, May 15, 2000, becoming the first public broadcaster to do so in Northern California. Bay Area viewers who have high-definition television sets can receive KQED's digital broadcast signal on KQED DT30-1 from sign-on to sign-off. Viewers who have an analog sets continue to receive KQED's regular signal on TV9. Viewers of both TV9 and DT30 receive KQED's full program schedule.
KQED's transmission of a digital television signal - also referred to as DTV - is the first phase in transitioning to an all-digital broadcast and production facility. After transmitting its first digital signal, KQED will begin to change its operations and equipment from an analog format to a digital one. KQED's DTV capability will allow the station to digitally broadcast over a variety of formats, including multicasting on up to four channels, broadcasting with enhanced or interactive television and, of course, airing programs in HDTV.
"KQED has reached a historic benchmark today with our first broadcast in the digital format," noted Mary Bitterman, former president and CEO of KQED. "This transmission affords KQED the opportunity to harness the power of digital television and use it to further our mission of education, culture and citizenship for the Bay Area community. High-quality programs like Sahara will be doubly so on KQED DT30."
KQED is poised to introduce an unprecedented level of educational services to the people of Northern California with the transition to digital technology. By making the leap from analog to digital, KQED is establishing itself as a major Northern California production center. Under a mandate from the Federal Communications Commission, all commercial and public television stations must make the conversion to digital technology by the year 2003.
If you would like to receive monthly email updates about upcoming programs and KQED's continuing conversion, email dtv@kqed.org.
