A poll this fall by the Association of Public Television Stations found that although public awareness about the digital TV transition was improving, 51 percent still had no idea it was happening.
Jim Puzzanghera writes for the Los Angeles Times.
How to apply
Starting today, each household can apply for two $40 coupons to help purchase no-frills, digital-to-analog TV converter boxes. The boxes are expected to cost $59.95 to $69.95, and the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued.
There are several ways to apply.
By phone:
888-DTV-2009. The toll-free number offers interactive voice recognition or live operators who can take orders in English, French, Russian, simplified Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese. There is a call-back option for people speaking 100 other languages.
Online:
www.dtv2009.gov
By mail:
Send a request for an application, or mail a completed application, to:
TV Converter Box Coupon Program
P.O. Box 2000
Portland, OR 97208
[ Source: National Telecommunications and Information Administration]
