Meredith Atwell Baker of NTIA is charged with the task of executing the digital-to-analog converter box coupon, and with the Wilmington NC experience under her belt, she is pushing to get consumers to adopt the apply-buy-try concept to head off deadline day travails as much as possible. "The Wilmington, North Carolina test showed that households who rely on a TV antenna for reception need to apply early in order to minimize the number of Americans adversely affected when the switch occurs," she said. “We urge consumers who need coupons not to wait until the last minute and to apply for your coupon(s), buy a converter box, and try the box with their television as soon as possible."
Step 1: Apply.
Apply for a coupon now. Coupons are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Consumers can apply for coupons online at www.DTV2009.gov, by phone at 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), by fax at 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632) or by mail to PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208. Deaf or hard of hearing callers may dial 1-877-530-2634 (English TTY) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish TTY).
Step 2: Buy.
Consumers should buy their converter boxes soon after their coupons arrive in the mail. Consumers will receive a list of participating local, phone and online retailers with their coupons. TV viewers are urged to make their choice before the end of the year.
Step 3: Try.
Once a consumer has purchased a converter box, they should connect the box to their analog TV immediately and follow the installation, and channel scanning instructions, and antenna adjustments, if needed. This provides the opportunity to test the converter box and troubleshoot potential problems prior to the transition date. Most importantly, consumers can start enjoying the benefits of a clearer picture and more programming choices now, so don’t wait to install your converter box.
For more information about the Coupon Program, please visit www.DTV2009.gov.
