Digital TV Transition
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.
DTV Troubleshooting Tips
Many Bay Area residents are experiencing similar problems with reception related to the recent DTV conversion. Here are some tips:
- Unplug your converter box, wait a few minutes and plug it back in and it will automatically rescan for channels. If this doesn't work, rescan without your antenna connected, then connect your antenna and rescan again.
- We are seeing more problems from people with indoor antennas. Try first moving your indoor antenna around, preferably to an open area close to windows or doors to increase reception. If this doesn't work you may need an amplified antenna (one that has its own power source and plugs in.) Or you may need an outdoor antenna.
- If you are close to Sutro Tower, but having problems with reception and have an amplified (plugs in) antenna; try unplugging the antenna. (Keep the antenna connected but unplug the power to the antenna.)
Programs to Help You With the DTV Transition
THIS OLD HOUSE offers how-to guidance and tips to help you successfully make the switch to DTV in your home.
AN UPDATE ON KQED's DTV TRANSITION
October 12, 2009
Construction is now complete on KQED's sutro tower antenna. Remember to regularly use the rescanning function on your tv or converter box to receive KQED and other digital channels that have changed their frequencies or signal direction. In some cases, a forced double re-scan may be necessary. Thanks for your patience during KQED's transition to digital.
The Bay Area has several walk-in help centers for DTV. Scroll down for more information. Live customer support is provided by the following stations in our area. Hours vary by station.
KGO TV: 415-954-7777
KNTV: 866-9NBCDTV
KPIX TV: 415.362.5550
KFSF (Univision): 415-538-8000
KTSF 415-468-2626
(For detailed information in Spanish, French, Cantonese, Tagalog and others, visit www.dtv.gov)
FAQ
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 viewers choices include Life-Encore (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.)
KTEH audiences will also be able to watch television in HD with the addition of an HD channel to their digital line-up, as well as adding V-me and a version of the best of public broadcasting from KQED.
KQET digital audiences will enjoy viewing KTEH's schedule as well as KQED's HD, Life-Encore and V-me digital channels.
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 the DTV transition. 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 after the DTV transition.
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?
On Wednesday, February 4, 2009, the US House of Representatives passed S. 352, the DTV Delay Act, by a voice vote. This is the bill that the Senate passed under unanimous consent on January 29, 2009, and therefore this Act will be sent to President Obama for his signature. We do expect the President to sign the bill shortly.
The Act moves the date for the national digital television transition to June 12, 2009, but preserves the right of stations to terminate analog prior to that date as long as stations follow the rules established by the FCC. The Act also extends the coupon program until July 31, 2009, and requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to issue, upon request, replacement coupons for each coupon that expires without being redeemed.
The Bay Area broadcasters are talking about transitioning to digital television earlier than the June 12, 2009 national date. Please continue to check back on this website for updated information on this finalized date.
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 web site 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: http://dtvconverterboxes.blogspot.com
How can I request my coupons?
The DTV Delay Act passed February 4, 2009, extends the coupon program until July 31, 2009, and requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to issue, upon request, replacement coupons for each coupon that expires without being redeemed. Register for coupons at www.dtv2009.gov/, or call 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009) between 5am-9pm Pacific time.
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 antennasdirect.com 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 www.cnet.com 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 http://www.kqed.org/tv/schedules/. KTEH viewers can have up-to-date listings at www.kteh.org/tv. 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 the DTV transition?
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 the DTV transition.
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
SAN FRANCISCO MARKET DTV CONVERSION LIST
Bay Area television stations will all turn off their analog signal at different times on Friday, June 12, 2009:
June 12, 12:01pm KNTV. KSTS
June 12, 10:59:59pm KMTP
June 12, 11:59:59pm KGO, KTVU, KPIX, KBCW, KRON, KQED, KTSF, KCSM, KFSF, KDTV, KTEH, KTLN, KKPX, KTNC, KRCB
DTV ASSISTANCE WALK-IN CENTERS:
Oakland Digital Television Assistance Center, 1431 23rd Avenue, Oakland, CA 94606; (510) 533-7266; M-F 11am - 5pm
The Self-Help for the Elderly, 407 Sansome Street, San Francisco, CA 94111; (415) 677-7600; M-F 9am - 4:30pm
Southeast Asian Community Center, 875 O'Farrell Street, San Francisco, CA 94109; (415) 885-2743; M-F 8am - 5pm
DTV South Bay Assistance Center, India Community Center, 525 Los Coches St., Milpitas, CA 95035; M 5pm - 8pm, T 5pm - 8pm, R 2pm - 8pm, F noon - 8pm
DEAF, BLIND, HARD OF HEARING AND SPEECH DISABLED CONSUMER DTV HELP:
CSD is working with the FCC to increase awareness about the digital television
(DTV) transition taking place on June 12, 2009. One of our goals is to get
this message to deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind and speech disabled consumers
across the country who may need assistance. CSD's DTV Help Center will be available
7 days a week, from 7am to 1am. The DTV Help Center is like no other across
the United States -- a fully-accessible Help Center whereby staff will communicate
with individuals one-on-one or with their families. Deaf and hard of hearing
consumers will be offered a choice of communication modes that fits their needs,
whether it is by voice, videophone, TTY, Instant Messaging, IP Relay, Voice
Carry-Over Relay, Captioned Telephone, Video Relay or Spanish Video Relay.
You can contact us with the following methods: Voice - 1-877-388-4968; TTY
- 1-877-889- 4273 Direct VP Number: 1-866-351-1950 and 1-866-401-3519 DNS VP
Number: dtv03.csd.tv, dtv04csd.tv, dtv05.csd.tv, and dtv06.csd.tv AIM Screen
Names - dtvcsr07 or dtvcsr008
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.
View:
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (6/30/2009),
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (3/31/2009),
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (12/31/2008),
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (9/30/2008),
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (6/30/2008) or
KTEH's DTV Consumer Education Quarterly Activity Report (3/31/2008).
Please note: you will need to have the free Adobe Acrobat (adobe.com) software installed on your computer in order to view the report.
