DTV2009: Converter Box Coupon Rules May Soon Change
Given the concession by Capitol Broadcasting president Jim Goodman that some OTA viewers in the Wilmington test market would lose their TV picture all together, a group of senators have come together and lobbied the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to make a few changes in the $40 converter box coupon rules. Currently they need to be used within 90 days or they're no longer good and can't be reapplied for. Nor can they be used for converter boxes that aren't on shelves yet, a problem for those waiting for a better selection of boxes with analog pass-through. Analog pass-through is a feature that Wilmington-area residents would appreciate as it would seem from comments made from those familiar with the test market that a fair amount of resident rely on low-power stations. Those stations will still broadcast in analog for the next few years, hence the analog pass-through feature.
The NTIA is saying they have the power to allow for reapplication of converter box coupons, and may consider changing the regulations after a period of review. First they want to look at how many people redeem their coupons by the time the first set expire in a couple of weeks.
In the meantime, be aware that if you have a converter box coupon you haven't used yet, now's the time to do it. The rule hasn't changed yet.
Via Broadcasting & Cable
Read More in: Digital TV Transition 2009
Related Articles:
Came straight to this page? Visit TV Snob for all the latest news.
Want to share this post with others? digg this and add to del.icio.us.
Posted by Justin Davey at May 9, 2008 8:00 AM
My coupons came today 5-15 and expire on 8-1 so apparently the time is ticking when the coupons are applied for not when received, the 90 days is actually 75 days.
I will wait as long as possible to see if the boxes with analog pass through become available.
Steals & Deals
HDTV Deals For The Week Of May 11/08: 3D Ready DLP Giants, Samsung 720p Discounts
Mailing List
