DTV transition date still in question...

The digital television transition date is still in question after the House failed to reach the two-third's majority vote supporting the Senate's bill to postpone the transition to June 12.

The digital TV transition is currently scheduled for February 17. On that day, analog TV signals will be shut off across the United States in favor of all-digital signals in order to free up spectrum for wireless networks.

But recent studies have shown that many Americans aren't prepared and will lose their TV reception should the plan go ahead on February 17. People who have older television sets without cable--typically those sets with rabbit ears--and rely solely on over-the-air signals for reception are the only people who'll be affected. Anyone with a cable or satellite plan, or with a newer digital TV are in the clear. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has been providing $40 redeemable coupons for people to purchase converter boxes that convert analog signals to digital, but a flailing economy has left the program short of cash and millions on a waiting list.

So, the date is really up in the air right now. Without a majority vote from the House, the bill which passed through Senate earlier this week won't pass uncontested. We'll keep you updated.

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