Novi Prepares for the DTV Transition

As the deadline looms for the federally mandated digital television transition, local businesses are offering consumers the necessary products and solutions to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Digital Communication Solutions in Walled Lake said the goal of its Web site is to explain the transition and offer services to help facilitate the change.
As of midnight Feb. 17, all television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to digital broadcasting.

"If someone is currently using a standard definition television with an over-the-air antenna, then on the date of the transition their TVs will just go to snow," said Jerry Chapman, president of the Novi-based Solid Signal.

Those who are currently connected to cable, satellite or any other pay TV service should not be affected.

In an effort to assist with the transition, the government is offering $40 TV Converter Box Coupons for households who wish to keep their analog television sets.

The Novi-based Solid Signal is an online retailer of high-tech consumer electronics and a government-approved vendor of digital television converter boxes.

"We carry a variety of products for those who want a choice," Chapman said, noting his company sells 5,000-7,000 converter boxes a week. "I think people think it's going to give them cable, but it just enhances what you've already got."

On average, Chapman said converter boxes range from $50-$90 and are offered with various amenities.

Other transition solutions include purchasing a new television with a built-in digital tuner or subscribing to cable services through a local provider.

According to Digital Communication Solutions, the transition is happening because broadcasters became interested in high-definition television and providing more channels to viewers, while Congress backed the move to digital to free up the analog channels for emergency communications and advanced services.

Among the benefits of the switch to digital, Chapman said it will offer different programming options and a clearer picture.

Although the switch day is still Feb. 17, a postponement, supported by the Obama administration, could be voted on by lawmakers in coming weeks.

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