There are three basic ways to make the switch to digital television by February 17, 2009.

1.  Use a TV Converter Box
   Purchase a DTV Converter box that connects to your existing television set and your existing antenna or rabbit ears.  A converter box will enable you to continue to receive free television reception.  You will need a box for each television in your home that uses an over-the-air signal. To make the transition easier, the  federal government is establishing a coupon program.  Each household will be eligible for two $40 coupons, each good toward the purchase of one converter box.  You can apply for the coupons by calling 1-888-388-2009 or by visiting www.dtv2009.gov.  Certified converter boxes will be available at retailers. 
2. Choose a new TV set
   Purchase a new television set with a built-in digital tuner.  All sets produced after March 1, 2007 have them.  You can get some digital sets at retailers for as low as $99.  Use it with your existing antenna (including outdoor antennas and rabbit ears).
3. Utilize cable or satellite providers
   If you already subscribe to cable or satellite, you won’t need to worry about the switch. Cable or satellite systems will continue to be compatible with your existing set. Check with your provider to see if they carry all of your favorite local broadcast stations. Keep in mind that any standard defintiion television sets in your home that are not connected to satellite or cable will either need to be replaced or connected to a DTV converter box in order to receive the digital signal (option 1 or 2 listed above).

OPTION 1: Use a new digital converter box with your old TV and antenna Better picture Receive all digital channels View all programs at standard definition (SD) quality No monthly subscription fee

OPTION 2: Use a new digital TV (with built-in digital tuner) and your old antenna Much better picture and sound All digital channels View all programs (if high defintion (HD) digital television view all programs in HD quality) Widescreen format No monthly subscription fee

OPTION 3: Use a new or old TV with a digital subscription to cable or satellite Requires subscription fee to cable or satellite service provider Complete access to UNC-TV's digital channels may depend on your provider and subscription choices. UNC-TV’s digital channels are available on Time Warner Cable.