APPLICATIONS FOR DIGITAL CONVERTER BOXES IN WILLIAMS' OFFICES

HARRISBURG, MARCH 24 – As a convenience to her constituents, state Sen. Connie Williams will offer applications at both of her district offices that entitle recipients to a discount on digital converter boxes for televisions.

"The switch from analog to an all-digital TV format is less than a year away. Now is the time for people to start looking at their individual needs," Williams said. "The federal government is offering a coupon program to help defray the cost of converter boxes for people who need them. As a service to my constituents, I will make these applications available at both of my district offices."

The transition from analog to all-digital will take place on midnight, Feb. 17, 2009. People who have one or more analog televisions that are not connected to cable, satellite or other pay services, will require a converter box to receive programs. This includes individuals now using a roof-top antenna or "rabbit ears" on their TVs.

Behind the change is an effort free up airwaves for use by emergency responders and a promise to consumers of a clearer picture and more programming options.

Consumers have the choice of:

• Buying a converter box that will plug into current analog TVs to change digital broadcasts into analog format;

• Buying a TV with a digital tuner; or

• Connecting the analog TV to cable, satellite or other pay services.

The TV Converter Box Coupon program was created for people who want to continue to use their analog TV sets. It provides up to two coupons (per household), each worth $40 that can be applied to the cost of eligible converter boxes. According to some estimates, the boxes cost between $40 and $70 each.

The coupons arrive in the form of a plastic card (similar to gift cards) and must be presented at the time of purchase at participating consumer electronics retailers.

For more information on the program, or to pick up an application, contact one of Williams' offices at 700 S. Henderson Road, Suite 100A, King of Prussia (610-992-9790) or Manoa Shopping Center, Suite 39, 1305 W. Chester Pike, Havertown (610-853-5433). Information and online applications are available at the National Telecommunications Information Administration Web site at www.dtv2009.gov.