Digital Cable TV is supplied by your local cable company. You receive your DTV through cables in the ground via a set top box. Cable companies also offer a host of competitive broadband and telephone packages alongside their service. It will usually be cheaper to buy a package comprising all three services than to obtain them individually from different service providers.
Satellite
Digital Satellite TV is supplied by either Direct TV or Dish Network. Digital signals are sent and received by satellites meaning you need a mini-disc attached to your property in order to receive digital satellite TV through their set top box.
Antenna
Over the air DTV is received via your existing TV antenna. It can be received by one of two ways. If you have purchased a new television the last year, then your set is equipped to receive the broadcast DTV signals. If you have an older set and are not ready to purchase a new one, then you will need to install a set top converter box* to be able to receive the DTV signal.
On February 17, 2009 all of the Nations broadcast television stations will cease to transmit their current analog signals and only offer the DTV format. This means that on that date if you haven't upgraded to a new TV or installed a "Digital Converter Box*", you will receive nothing but static on your current local channels.
Cable and satellite subscribers who receive all their stations by their provider need not worry. Your cable or satellite provider will be responsible for keeping your local stations going. However, if you rely on an antenna for local reception then you will need to make a change.
DTV transition is not the end of the world. In fact, it will make your TV viewing much more enjoyable by offering crystal clear pictures and more channels.
