All of these models above provide digital closed captioning, which appears to be an optional feature on some converter boxes. The availability of digital closed captioning can be very important for providing bigger or better captions than what's available from the analog TV. Some old or small TVs don't have any built-in decoding of captions at all, so a converter box with digital closed captioning can make a TV usable again.

The design of the different fonts available for the digital closed captions can make a big difference in the usability of the captions. Some old analog TVs had very poorly designed fonts for the captions, and unfortunately, manufacturers of converter boxes could make the same mistake. Thus it's important to find out what the digital closed caption fonts look like before committing to using one's $40 coupon on the converter box.

Unfortunately, it's really tough to find out that information. The digital closed captions can't be seen in the store if the store doesn't hook up the converter box to a live antenna. The manufacturers don't provide pictures of the fonts on their web sites. The majority of the converter boxes are only available online, which again risks wasting the $40 coupon. The millions of people who use captions would really appreciate Consumer Reports' help evaluating the quality of the digital closed captions from the different CECBs (coupon-eligible converter boxes) to avoid wasting the value of their $40 coupons on CECBs with poorly designed captions.

I've provided a link above to a thread for evaluating converter boxes for users of captions, but much more assistance is needed. Many people who need captions really need guidance soon before the 90 day period for using their coupon elapses.

Here's hoping that Consumer Reports can help out. At the very least, if caption users could simply see photos of all the different fonts used for the digital closed captions in the different CECBs, this would be really beneficial.

I find it odd that there would be any difference between the Insignia and Zenith boxes, it is my understanding that these are the same basic box with different labels.

Also, your video gave the wrong link; www.dtv.gov

The correct link is: https://www.dtv2009.gov/

I can't wait to see your full review.

Sincerely,

Bob Diaz

To Bob Diaz and others:

We'll have more information on the converter boxes soon.

As for the embedded video, you are correct in that the Web site to apply for a $40 converter box coupon is indeed:

www.dtv2009.gov

(We produced that video in early January, BEFORE the dtv2009 site became operational. However the www.dtv.gov site that is mentioned does have a link to the online coupon application Web site, as well as lots of other helpful online resources regarding the digital TV transition. We'll update the video soon.)

Thanks.

--Paul Eng, Web Sr. Editor

I would just like to ask consumer reports if they would include an evaluation of the "Digital Stream" converter box sold by Radio Shack, in their report.

Thank you.

Bob Diaz is correct and both the Insignia and Zenith boxes are made by LG Electronics. I suspect the Insignia box you tried has a manufacturing defect that wasn't caught in the factory. Both should perform identically as they both use the same PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly).

Too bad CR didn't do their research before buying two identical boxes. The RCA DTA800 would have been a better third box to try.

Forums indicate that the Insignia NS-DXA1 and the Zenith DTT900 are actually the same box, both made by LG Electronics, although there's a possibility that the devices' firmware may differ.

What about rural areas? I got the Zenith DTT900, hooked it up this morning, and find that I get NO signals at all. I have a rooftop rotating antenna (tried it both directions I usually point it) and with standard analog tv I typically can pull in at least 3 stations from one antenna direction and 3 from the other. How can it be that with the tv converter box I don't even get a hint of a signal. I'm 99.99% sure everything is hooked up right; I even tried both the RF and the 3-way outputs. I get the menu and tried both autoscan and manually entering channels, but still NO SIGNAL shows up. Any ideas? What about all the other people out here in the boonies--will we have to pay next year? Thanks, Jane

Obtained and installed the Insignia box for my father, for use with his traditional analog TV. He's located about 40 and 70 miles from signal sources, using his old top-of-two-story-house antenna and now seeing more channels and (I think) better quality images. He initially found the conversion experience a bit intimidating, but is now settled in and using it ok.

Pros:
- Sound and image seem fine. This was with coax cable between box and TV. Use of component cable might have improved on this.
- Does what it says it does.
- Channel-to-channel flip time seems reasonable (faster than my high end HD set).
- Remote control is well laid out and logical
- Zoom button allows selecting display format most appropriate for viewing the various traditional 3-by-4 and wide screen 9-by-16 programming. Apparently remembers zoom setting per-channel.
- Image and sound seem good.
- Straightforward attractive menu system.

Cons:
- On a couple of TV sets I first tested on, got significant white noise when program's sound was low/silent. Though was fine on my father's TV.
- Wound up having to set TV sound volume to max, then use box's volume to control the sound. Which is fine unless one turns the TV on before the box or turns the box off before the TV..... in which case he gets blasted with disconcerting very loud white noise. Tried the reverse of setting box volume low and using TV volume, but wasn't loud enough. Note: This was using coax cable between box and TV. Use of the component cable might resolve this?
- Remote's "TV power" button didn't work with my father's TV, so he still has to use two remotes. Presumably would work with some others.
- The remote control is too small for elderly and technically challenged. Which leads to likelihood of needing to obtain a larger universal/trainable remote control compatable with and capable of controlling both TV and box in a straightforward unintimidating manner........ Don't know how much that would be complicated by the boxes being new (and therefore not yet supported by non-trainable third party remote controls?). And cost of box plus an acceptably large/compatible/straightforward remote control might start to get high enough to justify looking at replacing the TV with a mediocre HD glass tube or flat panel TV, which would remove need for box and would typically provide a larger remote control and single power on/off button..

It is my understanding that some converter boxes have what is called "analog pass through." I believe that only 4 or 5 of the many converter boxes made offer this. The reason that this is important is because not all of the broadcast stations throughout the country are going to be required to switch to the digital broadcast come Feb. 2009. I guess there are somewhere in the vicinity of 2900 stations, that are considered minor stations, that may still send the analog broadcast. Meaning that a TV viewer with a digital converter box, without the "analog pass through", will not be able to receive these analog stations. This is the information that I have received through our store's national buying group, and I thought that I would pass it on as I have not seen this information anywhere else

To "Jane Brooks" -

Perhaps the reason your new convertor box may not have worked / picked up any channels might be that your antenna is only VHF - Channels 02 thru 13 .

Currently, most digital channels are UHF - a different antenna - 14 thru higher. Not costly - www.solidsignal.com has many -- one good model is a Channel Master 4228.

Has anyone found a converter box with a switched AC outlet on the back? I have a old TV with a volume control on/off and I would like to turn both on and off with the remote.

If you are having difficulty locating a DTV signal the following web site will tell you what direction to point your antenna and the relative strength of the signal.

http://antennaweb.org

Be aware that some stations are not broadcasting a digital signal and may not until the February 17, 2009 DTV switchover date. DTV converter boxes will only receive digital signals.

If you receive your TV signal through a repeater contact the owner/operator of the repeater to find our what their DTV plans are.

Thanks for helping clear up the confusion regarding the transition to Digital TV. I have more than 6 analog TVs. It looks like I will have to purchase 6 converter boxes... otherwise my community landfill will receive a truck load of old TVs.

Since this box now isolates the VCR/TV to one channel input, does the box have any timer-controlled channel selections to sync with the vcr?

To "Product Blog dated 11 Mar "- 6 analog Tvs -

You will Not be able to run those 6 CRTs on an antenna signal, even IF there were one-for-one Convertors.

This O.T.A. signal - even with an amplifier - seldom operates that many TV sets successfully.

Since two (2) are the maximum you can get on the Federal Coupon Program, you will still be out the costs of the others, for an outlay of approx $220 in total.

Better to get local cable 'basic analog service" instead - they Will hook-up all your (6) TVs to an adequately-strong signal thru end of 2011. NO Federal Boxes involved at all.

To all:

Just a short note to thank everyone here for their great input. And for those who are looking for more information about these converter boxes, we've finally posted our "First Look" at these set-top boxes.

You'll find it by typing in "First Look DTV converter boxes" in the search box on our site, ConsumerReports.org. Or, you can also cut and paste this simple URL into your broswer:

http://tinyurl.com/3xgqr7

Again, thanks for your comments. Keep them coming. And check back often as we hope to take closer looks at more DTV converter boxes soon!

—Paul Eng, Web Sr. Editor, Electronics

I purchased the Insignia converter box about two weeks ago and I am extremely pleased with the results.I am feeding the component video and audio out into a video input channel of my VCR.
All analog channels transmitting a digital signal are being received in absolute wonderful color and sound.The 480i standard def signal makes my old 90's RCA set look absolutely beautiful.
Many wonderful features on this unit.However i must keep the audio level of the box set to full or high and then control the low audio with my TV remote.It's a small price to pay for gorgeous pictures. Tim Young

Just to let you know that I applied for 2 coupons on January 1 - they were received in the mail March 14. The coupons expire on May 30, so I'm very much looking forward to your reviews from the tech savy.
Thank you.

Some info on the Magnavox TB100MW9 in the test report is incorrect. Report states only channel 3 is available to be used for RF output, which is incorrect. From the Manual:

"After you have completed the connections, select an appropriate external input channel on your TV (ch3 or
ch4) (refer to your TV’s manual for details), and also set the STB’s output channel to the corresponding
channel number (3 or 4). You can switch between 3 and 4 by holding [SETUP] down over 3 seconds."

To Mister TV:

Thanks for pointing out our oversight. You are correct in that the RF output for the Magnavox TB100MW9 can be set for channel 4.

We have fixed our First Look report on ConsumerReport.org.

Again, thanks.

--Paul Eng, Web Sr. Ed.

The research I've done so far indicate that the best features to have are smart antenna, pass through, signal strength meter, and s-video out and as you would guess NOBODY gives you all those features! I'm sure in the future you'll be able to get all the good features on some units but by that time the coupons that I orderded in Jan./07 will be expired. The Goverment never said anything about coupons expiring in 90 days! This has to change!

All of these units do not have analog pass thru, which will be a pain for folks until 2009, However, the ECHOSTAR TR-40 does have pass thru. I would hope that CU will review the TR-40 and its upscale cousin, the TR-50, voted the best at CES this year.

hi all i purchased a TB100MW9 Magnavox converter box, and no matter what way my antenna is it just says 'no signal'. could it be the antenna i'm using? It's amplified to about 25 DB i believe. Maybe if i got one with more power would it work? i live on the 1st floor and i am able to recieve most analog channels with the exception of some ghosting and snow.
or maybe the box is broke. and i should get another one? please reply

To: " Sean - 02 April - Antenna says None ..."

You didn't happen to include the Brand & Model of that antennae, but, from your experiences it's "safe" to conclude that it's only for "VHF band" - i.e. - channels 02 -13 only.

Federal Convertors are strictly for digital signals - above #13. Accordingly, either a "combination antenna -VHF/UHF " - or, a UHF unit IS mandatory.

Unless one is so very close to those broadcasting TV Towers that these are clearly visible, essentially poor results will be had with the current variety of "HD Indoor" antennae.

Rather, it will be much better to install one Outside or as a second ( less desirable ) choice, in one's attic. One such specific UHF unit - which will also work with channel #13 - is a Channel Master # 4228 - there are many others as well, of course.

This may be purchased from a "safe" web store -$77 -
www.solidsignal.com more (?), pls do "ask."

what about people that have sound sys setups. I wire all my componets to my amp before going any where.I don't use chan 3 or 4. I use a analog vcr & a ditatal dvd.

In my case, I have two antennas (VHF & UHF) in my attic, running into a UHF/VHF combiner, and then out to a pro-quality signal amplifier. The output from my signal amp is then split via a cable network into a wall jack in every room in my home. QUESTION: Can I simply put a new Set Top Box between the antennas, in FRONT of the amplifier, and then amplify the digital signal (providing the amp will do that in addition to the current analog) using existing splitters and cable network through my home? Having to buy a STB for all of my 8 analog TVs will be extremely unfortunate, if that's the only solution.

I can't wait to get my hands on a complete evaluation of all of the major brands of boxes including external dimensions and the availability of using 12V power. I'm trying to find a box that will work in my space challenged RV! So far, it looks like a toss-up between Artec T3A and MicroGEM MG2000.

TO: " Phil K. - 04 April -- 8 analog TVs "-

At "FORUMS - 03 April - # 8054.3 - your answer -sadly -
is One-for-One, a rather large cost, since only the initial two will have Coupons!

Otherwise, only a single channel will be displayed throughout the entire system.

It is sad that the government can bail out Bear Stearns, lower interest rates for banks, change laws for homowners who bit off more than they should have because they had to keep up with the Jones' or thought they could make a quick buck but when it comes to an afordable solution to watch TV without cable it is impossible. We have available 10 TV stations with rabbit ears and now with converter baoxes "the signal is too weak". What are the people on fixed incomes with interest on deposits falling every day to do? This is one example of how our government "fixes" things. Need suggestions.

TO: " Nancy-Ann B.-05 April-10 w/ Rabbit Ears but now Zero"..

"V" type analog set top antennas will not get the digital signal needed .

At "Digital Transition-03 April-#8054.1" is a listing of (2)
Comb VHF/UHF antenna, as many small, private systems will stay on analog for the foreseeable future. So, a digital for the Federal Converters & VHF for the "pass-thru" Boxes.

Depending upon distance from TV broadcasting towers, etc., these may work adequately in your attic - otherwise, outside.
(1) = AntennaDirect #XG-91 (same as Terrestrial )
(1) was Televes #DAT-75

May be seen + measurements at
www.solidsignal.com (no connection w/ myself!)

I have purchased a Philco model TB100HH9 DTV converter. I have tried it on both indoor, and outdoor antennas. This unit work well on both antennas systems, but far better on my old roof top UHF, and VHF antennas. In the Chicago area, DTV signals are currently broadcast on low band VHF, high band VHF, and UHF signals. This unit also has an analog pass through feature, to view standard TV signals without disconnecting the antenna cable. The only drawback the the Philco model is the tiny channel buttons on the remote control. Ken Lanovich

I received a coupon as requested for the converter box. It is only good for ninety days, according to the coupon. The problem is I when I received it, thirty days had already expired before I received it. When I went to purchase a box, the store hadn't gotten any in stock yet. Also you suggest that an individual can get two coupons, HOW?

Problem with signal may be due to the cable that comes in the Zenith box. We found that we had a bad cable. We replaced it with a new larger one and we have a beautiful picture and sound. Hope this may help you.
Dee

I have a walmart magnavox tb100mw9 converter box is this one generation 6th? I need the best high power one as I live behind mountians and gettting drops outs on some channels. Thank you anyone outthere for your help. phil.

I just received my two $40 off coupons for converter boxes. As reported by others, a full month of my 90 days usability period had already expired when the coupons were received.

I need converter boxes with analog pass-through because so many stations don't currently broadcast in digital mode and some smaller stations won't make that digital transition in 2009.

Most local retailers don't sell ANY converter boxes yet, and of the few that do, not one model supported analog pass-through. The estimated availability date of converters with this much-needed feature is long after the expiration date of my coupons.

I should have expected this. The $40 off coupon program allows our government to loudly proclaim the wonderful things they are doing for our citizens.

The reality is yet another government program that is so ineptly handled that it's meaningless.

I recently got the Magnavox converter from Wal Mart. Picture is excellent with all stations, both VHF and UHF, but one. It is clear on my other TVs in the house, but for some reason the converter box says 'no signal'. It's a UHF station, with the tower being the longest distance from my house (50-65 miles), and it does broadcast in digital. I have an outdoor VHF/UHF antennae on the house (two story). My mother (who lives 20 miles closer to the tower) gets this station crystal clear using the same converter box. Again, the other TVs in the house get this station's analog signal very, very clear. Ideas? I already have the signal boosted with a pre-amp before it splits to all the TVs.

I purchassed two of the RCA DTA 800-B converters but they will not work on my Magnavox TVs (one 20 years old and one 2 years old). All I get is snow - no sound, no picture, no nothing. I have changed cables, used splitters, amplifiers, etc. but to no avail.

The same converter boxes work great on an old RCA w/rabbit ears and a GE hooked up to a rooftop antenna. The two Magnavox are also hooked up to the rooftop antenna. Any ideas as to why the Maganov TV won't work with the converters?

I talked to a Zenith rep on the phone and was told that the DTT900 downmixes stereo sound to mono even though the box has left and right cable audio connections. Same signal on both sides I guess. In this respect it seems some coupon eligible boxes will offer inferior sound to analog. It may be the rule rather than the exception. How to tell?

A desirable feature and ANY TV converter box is the ability to watch both analog and digital TV broadcasts. The converter box coupon is on a short leash. We received ours in mid May. The coupon expiration date is July 15th. The 90 days have been diminished to 60 days.

The government lists the 81 coupon eligible converer box (CECB) models at www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm Of these, only 15 models are capable of passing though analog signal to the TV set. The CECB models with "analog signal pass-through capability" are:

APEX DT250 DIGITAL STREAM DTX9950
Apex DT500 DIGITAL STREAM DX8700
CASTi CAX-02 DIGITAL STREAM DSP7700T
DISH Network DTVPal Jiuzhou DTT9001
Magnavox TB-100MG9 Skardin DTR-07271
Philco TB100HH9 TATUNG TDB3001
Philco TB150HH9 Venturer STB7766C1
RCA DTA800B1

The three TV converter boxes tested by CU in its Yonkers, NY lab and reported on in March 2008 (Magnavox TB100MW9, Best Buy's Insignia NS-DSXA1 and Zenith DTT900) ARE on the CECB list but NONE of them have the "analog signal passthrough" feature. In it March report CU selected the Zenith DTT900 (the twin of Ingignia NS-DXA1)as its PICK.

Two Magnavox models are on the government CECB list: Model TB 100MW9 (no "pass-through" capability) and Model TB 100MG9 (WITH the desired "pass-through" capabilty). Could CU evaluate them side-by-side to determine if anything is lost by making a model "analog signal pass-through" capable? Second, please evaluate side by side several "pass-through" capable converter box models from the list above--including Magnavox, RCA, Digital Steam (from Radio Shack), and Philco.

CU's timely findings would hasten the process for consumer's to make a wise choice. Better choices from better information. We're counting on you for the latter.

Thanks

We just received the two TV converter box coupons and the coupons are only good for 60 days, which is reasonable.

It's towards the end of May now and they're good through August 5.

Also, I read somewhere that there are only a limited number of coupons that will be issued so if you think they will be there through next January, I would advise going ahead and procuring your coupons now and making your purchase in the allotted time.

Also, I found it interesting, that the government was issuing coupons on a weekly schedule, somewhat like the tax rebate checks. You can click on a link to that schedule on the government website. We are happy.

We live 3 miles from the transmitter tower and have never paid for TV. We are looking for analog-pass-through but may not need it, as even the PBS station is already broadcasting in digital.

Does anyone have any experience with Dish Network's DTVPal converter box? (see http://www.dtvpal.com)

It's one of the few listed with analog passthru. My coupon expires on 06/12/08 (received on 03/29/08) and so I need to make a purchase decision soon.

I bought a Magnavox tb100mw9 converter box recently and
tested it on my cable service on an old analog tv.

I contacted customer service with a few questions about installation
and was told the the Magnavox converter will not convert a digital
signal from cable and would only work with antenna signals. I would
have to contact my cable provider about a converter box.

I thought converters would convert digital to analog regargless
of the source of the signal.

Ok, I'm getting more confused as I read the posts. Do I still have to keep my aerial antenna on my rooftop, even with the converter box? I thought that this box was supposed to make that obsolete. And where can we find out which converter boxes are compatible with which TV/DVD/VCR?

Hey the longer cord worked on the magnavox, I'm gettin all the channels crystal clear. great advice. Thanks

Leanne yes you, i have outside antenna

I have had the Magnavox TB100MW9 converter box for over a month and a half. I have connected it to a 17 year old Magnavox color television. The unit has worked well; and, I am satisfied with the results. My picture quality is good; and, the unit appears to have a decent tuner. Some of my favorite features include the signal strength meter as well as the ability to add digital channels manually (which can sometimes be necessary when the initial scan does not detect all of the local channels).

Some of the more distant television stations are more difficult to receive. However, I attended a local meeting on digital television; and, the representative from South Dakota Public Television informed us that digital television stations are currently broadcasting at only 40% power. He said that this should be increased to 100% power after the analog signals are switched off in 2009.

I just got my box from Wal-Mart using my $40 rebate. The Magnavox converter was only $49. All I can say is WOW! the picture is so clear! Plus I get so many other free digital channels now! With the raising cost of fuel and food, this allowed me to cut back on the $100 mo. cable bill that I was not watching....

How long does it generally take to get our $40 coupons? I ordered mine a few weeks ago and am still waiting.

Anyone have suggestions on which DTV converter Box to get? I am leaning toward the cheap magnavox from Wal-Mart. From what I understand they all operate at nearly the same quality levels and it is not much worth it to spend extra money.

OK- got coupons a couple of weeks ago- only good till mid July. Did some reading up on features and found a Philco 100HH9 box for $49.99 at Fred Meyer store. Just got it home and hooked it up to a Magnavox TV (19" circa 1987) and it's not working at all. When I plugged the rabbit ear antenna into the box, it made the signal worse. Also, the box wouldn't go through its setup mode.

Am wondering if I need to get a digital antenna or exchange the converter box. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.... tina

I just got the Insignia (2 of them) and am quite floored by the difference, I would have got them the second the vouchers arrived if I'd have known what to expect...for our little bedroom TV (which happens to be Insignia as well) and our little basement TV, this is a perfect solution.

Easy to use, outstanding picture and sound, new channels I wasn't expecting...it's a winner. What a deal.

New tests!

DTV converters: Results of our tests of 14 models
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/06/dtv-converters.html

I have an Insignia converter box, but I cannot get good reception. I had really good reception with the analog, but much interference with the picture as well as the audio after hooking up the converter box. I live in Milwaukee and get several stations--all of which had good reception under analog transmission, but not with the DTV converter box. I have quit using the box until I either have to switch to it or the reception improves. Have you heard of any similar problems from anyone? If so, do you know how it was resoved if it was?

Thanks.

Re: Magnavox TVs. A Magnavox TV will only work with a Magnavox TV converter box. This is due to the remote control. Magnavox TVs will not work with a universal remote.

I have two Magnavox TVs and found this out after trying all brands of converters available in my area (Magnavox converters are NOT available in my area)and many subsequent conversations with Magnavox/Phillips-Magnavox as well as RCA whose converters are available in my area. This is a follow-up to my earlier posting of April 28th.

I purchased the Zenith DTT900. It has 6th generation decoder chips and is able to receive all but one DTV station in our market perfectly. One station is marginal, on some days it works but when propagation is poor it drops in and out. The EPG (Electronic Program Guide) on the Zenith box only has the current and next programs. I have ordered a Channel Master CM-7000 because it has S-Video output. The Channel Master unit also has a 12 hour EPG. I'll report on how it performs compared to the Zenith when it arrives.

I bought an Insignia converter box from Best Buy but it did not work. I took it back for an exchange and the second box also did not work. It gives me a no signal box on the screen no matter what I do. I live about 90 miles from Seattle but I get good analog signals from three channels, fair signals from two others and a fairly nice signal from PBS which is supposedly a weak signal due to low power. I also get a fair channel from Bellingham WA about 22 miles from my home. I utilize a roof top antenna with about 45 to 50 feet of co-ax cable. I do have hills and trees in the way of direct signals but still have good analog. Do I need to get some sort of "Better" antenna or an amplifier of some sort? I'm not a "Techie" so I don't really know what to do for my non existent digital signal.

I just installed the Zenith Converter Box to my small tv that is using rabbit ears. I too was also receiving low signal pics. until I changed the box ch. no. showing in the box menu from 3, which I do not have, to a 4 which I do have. Then use the tv remote to be sure your on 4 for the strong signal and then use the box remote for all other ch.'s . In other words, It's the programming part that is tricky. If the box menu sends the antenna info. to ch. 3 on your tv and you do not have 3 available on your tv then you do not receive any antenna info. Hope this helps someone.

Well the good ole government has done it to us again. We had perfectly fine TV via the antenna. We got ABC, CBS and NBC reception from Albuquerque, NM on our antenna. We just spent our two $40 coupons from Uncle Sam plus we had to pay extra to make up the difference on the purchase prices. We bought an Insignia box from Best Buy. Now we have NBC and 3 so, so signals from PBS. Bye, bye CBS and ABC. Not good!! Our local Walmart stores are always out of the converter boxes. Our remaining $40 US Govt. issued card expires on July 2nd so we felt pressured to try the Venturer brand box from Target. We hooked it up........we get fragmented picture signals from the 3 PBS channels with no sound. So far, we are very dissatisfied with our TV signals. What are the American people who do not have cable or satellite supposed to do? We have been dumped into the Dark Ages. Thanks Uncle Sam----again!!

One important thing to remember is to use RG-6 Coax cable from antenna to the Cable Box. The smaller RG-59 cable has too much signal loss for anything but very short cable to antenna leads. Since most of the Digital transmissions are only transmitting between 25% to 40% power at the present time, you might have picture freeze or pixilated video on your TV. This will not happen when the transmitters are operating at full power. Some models of the Digital Converter units will receive non scrambled Cable TV signals. If you have a HD capable TV, it probably doesn't have a built in DV tuner (LCD,Plasma, & some Rear Proection) & will need a converter box. To receive true HD quality you will need a converter box with Component Video or DTV connections, three RCA outputs labeled (Y Pb Pr). If it also has a rectangular plug (DVI) that connection will produce best quality Video. A few DV tuners have either IR or Coaxial (orange RCA) plug, which is Dolby Digital sound. If the signal signal strength meter shows 40% & some video dropout, don't worry about it now, as all Digital Transmissions will be at full power in February of 2009. For this reason buy a DV Converter Box with Analog Pass-through like Digital Streams DTX-9950, which is available at Radio Shack (#15-150, or any other unit with the Analog Pass-through.

To TINA.PDX who posted on June 2, 2008.
Magnavox TVs only work on the Magnavox converters because of the remote. I have two Magnavox TVs and finally found a Magnavox converter box on E-Bay. It's not a great converter because you still have to use your Magnavox remote plus the converter remote (they do different things). What I found interesting in the Magnavox converter box instructions is: that it tells you if your TV doesn't work to use the Sylvania codes. HOWEVER, it doesn't give you the Sylvania codes. The Magnavox Converter Box Customer Support number is: 1-800-605-8610 or you can go on line to: http://www.funai-corp.com for help. (That's who makes the Magnavox converter box) and all of this information comes from the Magnavox Converter Manual. Hope this helps.

I had to use my coupons soon so I drove to the Gridlink office and bought two converters. They look exactly like the Sanonic and Lasonic units. They have great pictures. I get about 45 channels in the Pasadena area using a 99cent V antenna. My wife wanted some analog channels but this converter has no passthru so I also bought a 99cent splitter with short cable so the V antenna signal also goes to the Sylvania TV. She now gets all the analog channels with the converter turned off. Gridlink is $39.95 plus tax so I paid $11 for two Gridlinks, two V antennas and two splitters.

I see the e-mail address isa not included in the posting. I would like to get any feed back from others. I bought a Zenith DDT900 digital video tuner. Works very well in getting signals some which I never had before. No channel 13PBS though here in Jersey. My problem and gripe is that I use both the Dish Network and an outside antenna. They come into the TV from two separate lines. When I put the tuner box in the antenna line it does not allow me to operate the Dish Network at all no matter what. The only way I can get it to work is to bypass the box and connect the line direct as if it were only spliced. Zenith said I can't get there from there.
Any suggestions or help would be appreciated. You can reply to me directly . Thanks. John

I have an insignia converter. I can not get a universal remote unit to work. I have a Philips remote SR3004WM/17 and have tried Zenith code 0065, and LG codes 0362, 0864, and 0765 and also ALL other codes listed for STB units. Is there another remote unit I can buy- or other codes that will work?

I purchased a Insignia converter box for my Magnovox TV. I hooked it up and I only get 1 channel in clearly. Most of the channels pictures are breaking up and the volume fades in and out. Some of the channels I should be receiving shows that I do not get a signal. I bought a new TV
antenna which works fine when the converter box is not hooked up, so I know my problem is not due to the antenna. I live in a Condo and am not allowed to put up a rooftop antenna. How do I find out if the digital signal is strong enough to the West Chester, PA area to get a clear picture and sound? Do you know who I can contact to find out this information? I do not want to go out and buy a digital TV and find out it is worthless. Thank you. Susan Enzman

To Susan, July 22/08; My guess is the converter is no good. Ed

To Susan again; I take back my advice just sent. Look at the Keeley entry on 6-14-08. It states that a Magnavox TV needs a Magnavox converter. Hope this is your answer.

TO: Susan - 21 July-"Not my antenna 'cause it works the Tv if connected directly ..."

By-laws prohibiting external antennas and / or satellite "dish" types have been legally found to be invalid / unenforceable now.

But - to find out what digital signals Are available, go to
www.antennaweb.org
input your ZIP & address, check "digital" & there will be listed those digital channels, what distance & which compass heading relative to you.

As well, there will be by color coding, which antenna types { VHF or UHF or even a combo } as well as "gain " - strength - is needed.

Except NYC & Chicago,etc., above channel # 13 is required for these Federal Converters to function... UHF antennas. But, this will change in some other cities after next Feb..

Unless those TV Towers are unusually close as well as w/o trees, nearby taller buildings, etc., dependable, consistent digital signals WILL be much more troublesome to achieve than your current analog. From your posting, it is NOT that Converter ... rather, the antenna is not the needed band.

One that might function adequately in the rear of a closet, etc., is the Channel Master # 4228 plus a short length of Quad Coax RG6 cable. Although considered the "strongest" UHF available, inside any building Does reduce digital signals at least by 50 %.

May be viewed at many web stores - one is -
www.solidsignal.com

ConsumerReports.org promised to keep these converter box ratings & recommendations updated but nothing seems to be new. The DTX-9950 appeared at least 6 weeks ago, and our local Radio Shacks seem only to be selling that box now, yet the only info available from a salesperson was that it "has passthru." It would be nice to know quickly about any and all additional features and any improvement in picture quality on new boxes, since we all have to purchase within 90 days of coupon receipt (I have until Sept. 24). Thanks for considering this.

To S. Towsley and all:

We are in the final stages of reviewing 10 more converter boxes, INCLUDING the DTVPal which I discussed here:

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/07/dtvpal-converte.html

We hope to soon included the details about these new DTV converter boxes here:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/televisions/digital-tv-converter/overview/dtv-converter-box-guide.htm

To keep up to date, I'd suggest you subscribe to our RSS feed, or bookmark in your browser this link:

http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/digital_converter_boxes/index.html

Thanks for your patience.

-Paul Eng
Sr. Wed Editor, Electronics

This whole process is getting so confusing, I think we'll just bail out and forget TV. We have DirectTV on only one set, but use antenna for local channels, and on all other sets. What the *&*^% are we supposed to do? All of the posts are such a variety of service from the boxes, we don't have a clue as to which way to go.

I beg to differ. You were in Yonker. The signal strenght is terrible but especially uhf stations. If things stay the way they are there are going to be many citizens complaining of this service and TV station complaining about loss of viewers. VHF is not that bad but does come in and out. UHF stations are terrible. Go to the suburbs and antennas inside the house. You will see. This is a force to make antenna users pay for TV.
Paul Burns
Wrentham, MA

TO: Paul Burns - 18 Aug - "Indoor Antennas ...."

All O.T.A. signal reception inside an attic is automatically reduced by about half ... metallic roofing stops almost all.

analog antennas may well have worked o.k. here - BUT - consistent digital signal reception needs a better antenna { more "gain" } as well as an outside mounting in most cases.

Also, a necessity will be the associated Quad Coax RG6 cabling, unspliced from antenna connection directly to the
rear "RF" terminal of the TV.

@ www.antennaweb.org

your ZIP & address plus checking "digital" will provide the color-coded antenna that is appropriate for you.

After Feb cut off of analog transmission, all digital signals Will become stronger ( more powerful).

www.solidsignal.com
or
www.antennasdirect.com

are only (2) of many web stores where these may be seen & bought. One of the "combo" VHF/UHF antenna is a C.M. #3016 - also boxed as a #5646 --- a very powerful UHF only is their # 4228 & it will still pick up down to channel 10 of the VHF Band, too.

TO Trax - 17 Aug - "Direct TV on (1)... antenna for locals"

Have "hope!" ... certainly confusing but possible !

For most, the first step will be to go to
www.antennaweb.org putting in ZIP & address, checking "digital" ...

Listed will be all your available digital channels - as well as the proper antenna by color-code. IF all spread out over the entire compass readings, then, unfortunately a rotor assembly will be in order.

IF most are "grouped" fairly close together ... pretend with a 15 or 20 degree compass arc ... you are good-to-go!

Some stations will be returning to the VHF Band ... others will stay at the UHF Band. IF both are listed, consider a "combo antenna" --- one is a Channel Master 3016 ... also boxed as a #5646.

IF all will be UHF Band ... there are many --- one is the C.M. 4228.

Connect with a good Quad Coax cable & proper digital splitters / connectors to each of your TV's Converters and all will work! F.Y.I.- (1) converter / each TV in order to "see" more than a single channel at a time.

See www.solidsignal.com
or
www.antennasdirect.com
or
www.mycablemart.com for supplies

Good Luck !

What people are finding out - unfortunately - is one of the caveats of digital broadcasting... It's more or less an "all" or "nothing" type of technology where when a minimum threshold has been reached, your set goes blank and you see and hear nothing. It's also a line of sight technology where the antenna and broadcast tower need to be inline with one another for optimal reception.
What most people are going to need to consider when converting to over-the-air reception of digital tv is to invest in the best antenna they can afford. This is especially true of viewers in rural or urban areas where there are lots of obstacles and electro mechanical interference.
While it is a bit of a cash layout, it's still less expensive than cable and satellite subscriptions.

There is still a lot of confusion about digital converter boxes.

Our non-profit, the Urban Progressive Foundation has been actively working with seniors and other groups to provide straight, clear and understandable information to help them through the transition.

Later this week, I will be traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina, where the first full blown transition test-run will commence. If you can't make the trip, allow me to be your eyes and ears. Visit my blog http://digitaldynamo.blogspot.com/ and website www.transition2DTV.com to for more information.

I just went to Gridlink in Pasadena, CA to bought another 2 GLT-200 for my parents, their price has raised from $42.99 to $45.99 compare to when I made my first order in July but still is lower than Best Buy. GLT-200 is exactly the same as Sansonic and Lasonic which sold elsewhere for about $54.99 and it does not provide analog pass-through capability but actually that might not needed for some TV. What I setup for myself and my parents (we all have cable TV) is leave the original coaxial cable from cable un-touch and use a composite cable with L,R audio cable connect (those red, white, yellow cable) to the extra video-in provided from most TV set and when watching cable program, I just use channel 3 as usual and when I need to watch the DTV program, I switch to Video-1 from my TV remote. During Olympic period, I usually set my TV as picture-in-picture and switch them back and forth. I have to admit that the digital broadcast signal is far better than my cable quality. By the way, Gridlink they are offering free shipping for their combo set order at this time ($59.95 for converter box plus an active antenna), even I did not benefit for it but that might come thru for someone.

I bought 2 Insignia boxes on 06/06/08 and 1 appears to be fried. The picture freezes or scrambles and the box won't turn off. After I unplug it and plug it back in, it works for a few minutes then freezes again. These boxes have a 90 day warranty. Bought it at Best Buy. It does provide a great picture. Any hope for me besides having to pay full price for another one?

I want to know if I have to wait until Feb. to get good reception with my converter box. Or can it be used now. I hooked it up once and the picture was fuzzy and snowey. I hooke it up right. I just need to know if I am going to have to buy an outside antenna or another device to watch my tv. I want to know now. I don't want to wait until Feb. and have to buy something else. I am not a last minute person.

TO Eva - 21 Sept - "Do I have To Wait .....?"

Great that you ARE trying now!

No, all major markets have had digital broadcasting for some time already.

You didn't happen to include the model - BUT - it still sounds like you are only watching analog .."snowy, bad quality ..? Digital doesn't ever allow this ... strictly 100 % perfect or Zero. Maybe your converter is a bypass one?

Your antenna Must be able to show { without the Converter } channels above #13 very well / clearly in order for the Converter to function. If it was the habit to only view Channels #02-#13, then, you'll need something better / stronger / more appropriate than whatever you have now as an antenna.

Depending upon your specific locale, obstructions, distance from the TV Towers, etc., perhaps you can install a proper new one within the attic .... IF an adequate access exists ... must be ~38" minimum, corner-to-corner or a set of folding stairs, etc,.... there is a Channel Master 4228 for that provides the maximum "gain" for UHF channels, even including #13 in some cases.

Attic installations DO experience a loss of about half the total signal available ... that's whenever one may need to install outside.

www.antennaweb.org is one of the web places to input your ZIP & address (ignore all the rest), check digital & listed will be the channels available to you now as well as after Feb - some channels are changing.

Also will be the Compass Location relative to your address & most important, what strength / gain antenna is recommended by a color code.

All may be viewed at www.solidsignal.com as well as @ many others.

Good Luck!

TO: Jimmy - 13 Sept-"One Converter IS Bad .. do I Pay ..?"

Yes, after the limited warranty is past / expired, it's the very same as all our prior electronic / electrical items ...
VCRs, DVD Players, DVR/VCR Combos .... all have been "disposables" for many years, far more costly to repair than to "toss" & start anew.

Plus, even IF a repair might be accomplished, there is never a (90) days guaranty on that "workmanship!" Instead, the shop will simply claim that the failure IS because of something else ... how would anyone know?

Just buy new & hope! Or, give up entirely ... since you do have multiple picture tube sets, perhaps the Limited, Basic analog cable of 20 -24 channels @ $11-$12 / monthly that's available everywhere thru early 2012 would be better.

I live in a very rural area and bought the Zenith DTT901 (new version of the DTT900). It didn't work at all. It only picked up signals for 3 of the same PBS channel, WB and a Spanish channel. It couldn't pick up any of the main channels I normally view, with a small antenna. If I have to buy the most expensive antenna possible, I might as well go for cable, or Direct TV.

TO: Marie - 06 Oct - "If I need the most costly antenna?"

You may have only tried one of the indoor "special, amplified, ..." indoor antennas displayed in most of the stores selling the Converters nowadays? Except in very unique circumstances, all indoor antennas { very old or brand-new } will be unsatisfactory ... constantly adjusting from channel-to-channel, different during storms, not sufficiently powerful to get all channels, etc..

You are correct ... a new, appropriate, outside antenna system, commercially-installed for those unable to climb up on the roof, etc., Will be extremely costly! Plus, there will be occasional maintenance $$$ due to wind storms, bad icing, etc..

All local cable sysytems HAD to agree with the FCC to provide limited, basic analog channels thru 2012 at reduced fees ... COX has (24) @ $11.75, COMCAST = (20) @ about $11, etc..

This service Does provide perfectly-clear reception on all picture tube TVs of the home plus allows the old VCRs to continue just as always.

You're making the proper choice! Do be "firm" with your cable company ... naturally, they are intent on selling their 75 or 100 ... + channel services!

We have used a rabbit ear antenae with a recent vintage TV set and have had poor to satisfactory analog reception in Markham VA 22643. The location is in an old house with a metal roof located in a low spot surrounded by trees.

We purchased, and hooked up, and programed a digital conversion which indicated that no signal was received. Would our next step to try an antenae in the attic or outside?

Thank you.

Andy Bellingham

To: Andy B. - 17 Oct - "Low spot in house w/ Metal roof"

Bad News!

You will Not get dependable UHF antenna service for any Converter ... that metal roofing totally eliminates any / all hope of inside or attic antennas plus the electronic "reflections" or echos by it + those trees, + being in a low spot will also make any outside antenna essentially hopeless, too.

You need to arrange for the new, limited, basic analog cable service - good through 2012, NOT Feb !

All local cable companies have it ... around (20) channels for under $12/mo.

I have purchased the magnavox converter but have one of those tv/vcr combination. The issue is that my tv is a panasonic and when I hooked it up, stations CBS and NBC cannot be viewed. It shows those "pixcels" as though its trying to scramble it. I bought this box brand because it was the only one available at Wal Mart and did not do my research of different ones thinking all offer the same funtion. Will I eventually be able to view those channels after the Feb date? If not do I have to now return the box for a different one?

Do you have to wait until end of Analog broadcasting before you can hook up the converter boxes and get digital TV? Apparently, VCRs' will not work as they normally do now. It will not be possible to record one program while watching a second one. Will we have to throw away our old VCRs' and buy new ones which will allow us to record,and watch different programs at the same time?

TO: Rosanne - 21 )ct - " Do we need to wait until Feb?"

Absolutely Not ! With all the difficulties many are experiencing already, definitely try to connect your federal coupon Converter immediately! Stations have been doing digital signals for well over a year already !

And, you may need a new UHF antenna system to make it receive all the various channels.

No, that VCR will Not function with just the single Converter ... it will need it's own Converter, since there is just a single Tuner per Converter.

Hook it up from that same UHF antenna coax with a "splitter" ... then, you may view (1) channel while that VCR records a different one.

TO: Debra - 20 Oct - "Only see Pixels on 2 channels ..?"

That suggests that your UHF antenna is Not sufficiently strong or is indoors / attic?

With this new transmission, the signals must be much stronger than with analog ... plus, digital TV is either 100% perfect or ZERO, without any sound or display at all!

Unless you literally "live within the shadow of the TV Towers" a set top, indoor antenna will not "do" dependably. Bad weather, difference between each channel, constant "adjustments."

IF it is of the proper type now, just relocate it outside, high atop your rooftop.

IF not, go to a web site - www.antennaweb.org - is only one of many. Input your ZIP, ck 'digital' & ignore all the rest. Listed will be the color code of suggested antennas.

www.solidsignal.com is (1) of many sites to view different antennas.

Response for everett whitney

My antenna is clipped on to the TV set and I live in an apartment and cannot put an antenna outside. I will go to the web site you showed me for options. This is really unfortunate because channel 2 (CBS) is the one most viewed and channel 4 (NBC) does not show at all. I do get the korean channel very clear as well as the others. Thank you for the web link, if nothing works, I will get DSL on my computer and view my shows there and forget about television.

TO: Debra - 23 Oct - " Apartment for Channels 2 & 4 ..."

It should be that your market does have the unadvertised BUT available, new, limited channel analog - good thru 2012 - Not next Feb!

COX has (24) @ $11.75, Comcast usually offers (20) @ $11.25 , .. etc..

Lots cheaper than "DSL!"

Be "firm" -- their telemarketers obviously want to sell you their 100 -150 + channel packages instead!

here in orlando fl , just put my rabbit ear antenna on the roof and it works perfect 25 channels , when i use indoors the signal was too weak.and just show me "Freeze or pixels only" so i get a 15' coax cable and put the same cheap $3.00 antenna on the roof and now i see all the channels . so the thing is not on the box, nor the antenna is Getting the signal. ( maybe attach the antenna to a pole will do it)

TO - Edwin - 24 Oct - "Put Rabbit Ears Outside ...!"

NOT a good idea ! These are Not weather-proof at all & will "short out" in the rain very quickly.

Mustn't recommend a BAD idea to others. They should buy a legitimate outside antenna instead.

I'm finding that the digital converter box causes insurmountable problems regarding the use of VCRs's. I ended the installation of the converter box, because I now am able to program(depending on the brand of VCR) four to eight programs at once for daily, or weekly,viewing. With the converter box I could only program one program at a time, and it would have to be on a daily basis. If I want to travel, I could no longer program my favorite shows,to view when I return,I would have to be home in order to do that. I could never again record one program while viewing another, that could only happen by buying two converter boxes, of different brands, then the antenna person could do a split on the antenna to accomodate both converter boxes. The switch from analog to digital was not well thought out. Where are the digital ready VCRs'? At this point, I am just going to let the TV go black!!

TO: Rosanne - 31 Oct - "Where are digital VCRs..?"

There aren't any digital (VCRs)!

Some two & a half + years back, the FCC required that all VCRs (then) had to come with ATSC [digital] tuners internally as well as the analog already!

Some Makers "complied" by simply removing ALL tuners .. only a VCR Player!

Same phenomena happened then w/ Combos.

Now, insufficient sales or demand for VCRs, since these can Not do the better definition of HDTVs!

VCRs are essentially only Players from now on.

A few ATSC & NTSC dual tuner Combo units - too costly & very problematic to date !

There are excellent TIVO units for Over-The-Air Recording / Playback, equalling the same as 30 VCR tapes! --- but these all require a $13 / monthly fee (forever). Refurbs start at $179.

See at www.tivo.com

What happens when the Converter Box remote goes bad. Do I have to buy another from the original Converter Box Mfg'r or are there Universal Remotes that will work on most Mfg'rs boxes.

P.S. to Rosanne - "DIGITAL VCRs .. ?"

Those TIVO units do Not need any federal coupon Converters at all, Will record two different channels simultaneously or view (1) / Record a different channel ....

These Do have a complete Program Guide for every show, every channel, every day for a week ! You may "program" Far easier than you ever could on a VCR, with a terrific "Library" to review what's already recorded.

You may also Record .. all episodes in a series for all season with a single setting & - Most Important - no more blinking 12:00 as the power is lost temporarily.

Not all "bad!"

TO: Ed - " Converter Remote Bad - How to Replace? "

Hope that a 'universal' one for free ( rebate ) or at the least very cheap will have the needed code for programming as the separate "O.E.M" remote may be as much as the Converter or simply not available at all. After all, the Converters themselves don't have any warranty on day 91 so, why stock parts?

I purchased a Magnavox with pass thru and have had no luck in getting it to work, I have an amplifier and the tv works well with the boosted signal however when I hook up the box it says no signal? Is it possible the amplified signal will not work or is it a bad box?

TO: Harry - 03 Nov - " NO Luck w/ Converter ...?"

You - as well as 99% of the rest - haven't realized that a new antenna system may be needed for these Coupon Boxes !

In spite of the very few posts ".. I get 20 channels ..", there are numerous more that get Zero, same as you did !

Federal Coupon Converters must have a UHF Band antenna using a Coax cable ... that excludes NYC, Chicago + some others reverting back to Hi VHF Band.

Plus, unless one is practically "in the shadow" of the TV Towers, any older set top antenna, especially "V" rabbit ears, will not do, either. Again, some are lucky - most are Not!

use www.antennaweb.org input only ZIP { ignore all the rest} & check 'digital' ---- listed will be those digital channels, which Compass Heading, how far, and by color-code, what type / VHF / UHF Band of antenna, both now & Post Feb..

www.solidsignal.com is only (1) web store offering essentially every antenna made.

I went to wall amrt with a coupon and paid 9.99. It's an RCA and it is fantastic. Prior to ths marvel I received 5 channels. [poorly] now 15 channels and cristle clear It is comparable to cable or dish. And setup is a PIECE O CAKE.
MOLEWA BLANCHARD,OK.

By accident I came across the Apex dt25o converter and the Smart antenna. We have yet to buy two converters. I wonder if this one that has "all the right connections and the antenna that automatically tunes in the best signal' is a poor, good, better, or best buy. Please advise because we live out in the boonies in the northeast part of Adams county. Nearest town is Keenesburg which is at least 12 miles from our home. I await your response. Loren

TO: Lauren - " SMART ANTENNA ..."

Those in theory do have the abilities to perform very well ... do understand that it's Not the distance from any .. town .. as from those TV Towers themselves, of course ... these may be located far removed, away from city!

One should always look up their Channels, etc., on
www.antennaweb.org first! Input ZIP, check 'digital' & ignore all the rest.

Listed will be all your channels, what Compass direction + distance to Towers, which Bands or Both, currently as well as IF yours are any of the 400 returning to Hi VHF from temporary UHF and, by color code, how much 'gain' or strength is needed.

Perhaps a relatively routine antenna set up will "do" equally-well --- Smart Antennas are terrifically costly for now.

Certainly true that "IF" your Towers are also only those 12 miles in distance, there ARE many from which to choose.

www.solidsignal.com has about all to be viewed / ask questions, etc..

P.S. - LAUREN - " Smart Antenna / Zip 80643 ...?"

Sadly, just checked for the above # .... there will be only (2) digital Channels near enough for you & these don't need any Smart Antenna at all. Just a very simple DB-4, perhaps even mounted within your attic !

"ION" & IND" networks are those (2) ... all the majors in Denver are much too far removed ! At 45-50 miles +, with your weather & terrain ... there's not going to be 100 % reliable UHF digital reception of the major networks.

You will need some TV service other than Over-The-Air.
Sorry.

Two questions: #1 If my TV is connected to converter box, and if I buy a dvd/vcr such as Panasonic EZ48V which has a digital tuner, will I then have a "normal" dvd/vcr which can record multiple programs on multiple days such as I have now with my present dvd/vcr? #2 I have a television set that is both TV and DVD and VCR player. If I attach a converter box to it, will its' digital tuner control both the TV part and the DVD/VCR part?

Upon connecting a converter to my parents analog tv I received "no signal". I triple checked all of the connections and reread the instructions everything was connected properly. I did the channel scanning 6 times and still got a "no signal" message and the signal meter read "0". This tv is connected to a channel master roof top antenna with a rotor and booster system. I went to rabbitears.com and it seems that all of the 5 channels they were receiving beautifully in analog have gone to digital. They live in a rural hilly area of NH. How will I be able to resolve their reception problems? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

TO: Lisa - " Rural, hilly part of N.H. ?"

" IF " they live on a hilltop ... perhaps their exiting antenna might be only VHF, whereas the must have also a UHF unit-- probably a combination would be better.

BUT - IF they live in the valley between those hilltops, they will NOT be able to pick-up UHF digital signals! Entirely different issues than our old analog reception.

www.antennaweb.org is the start ... input Digital, address, etc., check 'digital' - listed Will be their available Channels, Compass Heading, which transmission bands now & after FEB { Hi VHF or UHF or Both }, distance and by a color-coding, recommended strength or "gain" needed.

www.solidsignal.com shows views of all possible antennas ... compare what your parents now have with what has been suggested .... hopefully, there'll be a better one available!

Also, the connection must be w/ Quad Coax RG-6, one length, with factory-supplied Connectors.

Much more - so, please repost?

Has anyone realized that the sound is delayed with this digital or is it just on my end. I noticed the mouths of the actors say the words before the the audio. I came home with no signal at all and before I was at least able to view a few channels before I get my "special" antenna. (they are expensive for my budget by the way)

I'm getting a converter box for my RV motor home. The tv is 12 volt dc and was wondering if the converter box was also 12 volt. There is a cigarett plug in adaptor behind my tv. I cant find anything on the power supply requirement.
Thank You
Gerald

TO: Gerald - " TV is 12 volts ... Converter is ?"

These are only 120V ... see if there's any 120 V outlet within your RV's system - it doesn't need to be of a huge capacity ~~ 100 watts or less - with which to operate the federal coupon Converter.

BUT - you WILL need to get a new antenna system, too. Digital reception IS an entirely new, different animal compared to our 50 years of analog with ".. aluminum-wrapped.." coat hangers! Very problematic / erratic / tedious/ extremely short distances !

I am going to replace my old tv that had an antenna. Are there going to be television sets in the stores that will be compatible with the converter box? Because they dont sell them with antennas anymore and are just cable ready.

Debra:

All TVs now sold in stores have built-in digital tuners that eliminate the need for a converter box to receive over-the-air broadcasts. So you won't need to buy a box, or use a box you now own, if you're buying a new TV.

-- Paul Reynolds, Electronics Editor.

I installed my converter box about 4 weeks ago. It's been working just fine and bringing in all my local stations. However, yesterday I began having problems with my local station WTOV-9 out of Steubenville, OH. When I tune to that station, I get the message "No Signal". All of the other stations are still coming in just fine. I don't know where to begin to troubleshoot this. Any ideas?
Thanks!
Sherri

I bought 2 converter boxes 4-6 months ago...one for each tv. Recently I've had to buy another 2 boxes for around $50.00 each as the first 2 boxes quit working, 1 week apart. I sent one back to Digital Stream hoping to get a replacement, and I will have to try to send in the other one to them also. At present I am waiting to get the first replacement in the mail.

I have the RCA Converter box. DO I connect my DVD player the same way as the instructions show to connect a VCR player? There are no direction to connect a DVD player.
Thanks

between my neighbor and I, we have four had Magnavox digital converters. Three of them scanned one time each and found no signal, then locked us out,the fourth only the power light came on. Called Magnavox customer service and were told we didn't know how to put our T.V.'s on channel three.We went to other brands (full price) and they work fine. Magnavox was a waste of coupons.

I purchased an RCA Converter Box, I installed it on my Projection TV as outlined in the instructions. All was working just fine except the picture had a yellowish tone and the signals faded in and out. I was able to view most of the programs that was located when I scanned for available signals. After about three weeks of viewing, my expensive TV has a shadow in the back ground from letter boxes and other info fixed on the screen. I would like to know is there going to be any enforcement of product liability for those that are creating defective products or products that cause damage to Projection TVs.

We bought a RCA STB7766G1 from Target today and connected it to a "back up" TV. Before we were able to get 5 local channels. Now we only get one..the UHF channel. What is the reason for this? (Our back up tv is used only when the cable goes out due to bad weather.)

Will portable (battery) operated TV's not work anymore either? How are we to know what is going on in the world when our power goes out. Sometimes mine is out for a whole day or 3 days. The radio does not give us much info when power is out.

Dori

I purchased a Sansonic DTV converter several months ago and it was working fine. I was receiving local channels and even a few channels that are relatively far away. Then suddenly I was unable to receive any channels! I am unable to receive a signal from any of the transmitters in my area (ca. 2 miles away). My converter appears to be working properly and I have scanned for stations many times with no success. I even purchased a new antenna with no success. I went to antenna.org and looked up the optimal antenna for my area and I should be able to pick up signals (at least 5) with a rabbit ear style antenna. I am really frustrated and really don't want to throw any more $ at this problem!

I also had the same issue as Kay M. I purchased two Digital Stream converter boxes in June and they both stopped working within a couple weeks each other. I went to dsconverter.com and e-mailed support on 1/25/09 I finally got a phone response from them on 2/19/09. When I called them back they told me that the boxes were out of warranty and there was nothing they could do. They have a 6 month warranty and mine were out of warranty by a month. Based on poor customer support response and lack of the ability to do anything about multiple failures even though they are technically out of warranty I will not be purchasing products from this company again.

I have a 12v tv in my boat. 2 problems - I need a 12v DTV converter AND the ability to receive analog tv when I travel with my boat in Canada.

1 - Is there a 12v DTV converter?
2 - In Canada, do I have to undo the DTV box to use the tv?

Thanks

TO: Rick - Canadian Tv in a Boat -

Yes, there are very many adequate 12V-to-120V Converters for your TV . . . . same as for autos, RVs, etc..

BUT - since your DTV conversion isn't for until 2011, YES - you'll need to use the analog only TV, unless you might be very near our border at times ?

TO: Jeff & Kev-"Unsatisfactory Converters..?"

From the rather HUGE number of early-failures of essentially all Brands / varieties of federal coupon Converters, as well as the problems associated with constant rescanning from now thru 12 June because of newer digital channels coming on-stream constantly - it would seem to be pertinent that one seriously consider "biting-the-bullet" & simply buying a new, top tier HDTV instead !

With the horrifically bad Global Economy, there has been sales / promotions at pricing even lower than last Black Friday ! Yesterday, Conn's Appliances closed out Sony's KDL-32XBR6 @ $599 !

A much more satisfactory end-result than will ever be achieved w/ Converters !

@ Jane Brooks-
Unfortunately, you've run into one of the problems with digital TV; the "cliff effect". Digital signals are either on (you get them) or off (you don't). They don't degrade like analog signals do. While this is a good thing if you live in an area with a strong signal (the picture & audio are great), it's not so good if you are in a "fringe" area.

I've just finished fighting this battle at my parents farm, and found a nice article that helped a lot. http://www.digital-tv-converter.info/digital-tv-converter/digital-tv-reception-tips/

The short of it is making sure you have the proper antenna, and making sure it is aimed correctly. If you are using an indoor model, see if moving it higher (on a shelf perhaps) helps any.

Best of luck to you,
Aaron

My Magnavox Converter Box is a piece of junk. My SETUP button does not work anymore. I have tried new batteries and it still does not work!! All of the other buttons on the remote work, except the SETUP button. What a piece of CRAP!

Nicole - " MY Converter is a Pile of X#$@@!"

Totally aside from your foul language {strictly prohibited!} - there ARE now very frequent postings herein by C.R. that federal coupon Converters are NOT a 100%, permanent DTV fix!

ONLY a very temporary, short-term solution to permit the continued use of picture tube sets for a short while longer.

Everyone will eventually need to buy (1) new HDTV set, with it's own, internal Digital Tuner - sorry - BUT - that's the way it is!

everett

After owning our converter box for a few month, now, suddenly, after switching the box on (and why doesn't it have an actual switch, and you NEED remote?)it switches off after a few seconds. So, basically, now, after being compelled by the government of all entities to purchase one of these newfangled gizmos, our is absolutely useless, a piece of junk. Yes, I've tried unplugging and turning off to reset. but there's an obvious problem with the switch or some other component that should keep it turned on when we turn it on. What i could be after such a short period of time is beyond me. Any help or recourse would be appreciated. It would have been nice if they worked the bugs out of these things before FORCING US TO BUY THEM!

RCA stb7766g1 remote was bad out of the box, sent it back (not recieved, been 3 weeks)now the unit does not work at all. Power light goes to green, stays on, does not shut off. Unplugged unit for an hour, still does same thing. No picture, wont turn off unless you unplug main power adaptor.

I purchased a Magnavox TB110MW9A in part because the reviews in websites like this were positive. How wrong was I! A unit sold through the #1 retailer, carrying an American brand name ( Magnavox) but with Japanese components sold and serviced through a Chinese company (Funai) with poor customer attitude when the unit reaches over 90 days. I am now stuck with a faulty box, nothing nthey can do, have to buy a new one.
How much of the taxpayer's money went into this program, only to have many of these units fail within a year? Is there built in obsolesence so now we have to spend more out of pocket money for something we already purchased with our tax dollars? Where does the PSC, FCC and congress stand on this- do they know what's going on? Does consumer reports have long term data on these units, like you do with automobiles?

I purchased an apex digital box with my coupon in June 2009. It worked fine for nine months, then it suddenly stoped working! What a piece of junk. If I want to keep watching American Idol...I guess I'll have to buy a new one at full price. What a ripoff! These boxes are all made in China and programmed to stop working in less then year. Somebody should investigate this!

I wanted to say that ALL of the converter boxes stink !! Hoping real hard that they all Blow up not hurting anyone, but I am so sick and tired of trying to watch a program and it mess up and has no signal .... What ever possed anybody to come up with a BUNCH of JUNK, I will never know... I am one of the UNfortunate in the group that can't afford satelite, cable Etc. and I know there are alot in the same position that I am in and they can't stand the JUNK boxes either, Somebody PLEASE do something so we can watch a program without the stupid box going Haywire... Just my thoughts !!

Well, the government goofed again! I also bought an Apex which worked for less than a year then would never turn on again. It also made a high-pitched whistle when it was off. And the whole digital thing is terrible. We have sections of the parlor you can't sit in or you'll interfere with the signal. If a truck drives by, the signal goes in and out. Sometimes the program is in slow-motion, including the sound. Obviously they did not do enough planning before forcing this on us. I can't afford to buy a new set or change to a subscription service. I have a top-of-the-line antenna which doesn't seem to be enough. Is there any hope out there?

Purchased 2 of the boxes from Radio Shack with the goverment coupons and cash. Both ran fine for about 9 months then you could no longer turn them on and red light stayed on.
Problem turned out to be 2 bad capacitors on the small power supply board,[I guess they used capacitors they had in stock,
plague capacitors]They will be bulging on top or bottom and are easy to spot.
Just replaced them with 470uf 35V one's from Radio Shack for about $6 for 4.
Both running well now