NTIA Approves Philips Converter Boxes For Coupon Program

Converter boxes designed to assist analog TV users [The following is a release from Philips]

December 17, 2007

Philips announced today that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved three set-top digital-to-analog converter boxes to its list of coupon-eligible tuners. The three new converter boxes are marketed under the Magnavox and Philco brands. “We worked very closely with the NTIA to obtain approval and are glad to assist consumers during the next few years as analog technology becomes less prevalent,” said Andy Mintz, Philips’ Senior Vice President of Audio, Video & Telephony. The converter boxes were developed so consumers can continue to use their analog televisions with over-the-air broadcasts after February 17, 2009. Currently, full power television stations are converting to all-digital signals, as mandated by The Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005. The Act also authorized NTIA to create a TV Converter Box Coupon Program that will provide up to two $40 coupons per household to go toward the purchase of converter boxes. According to the NTIA, digital television provides consumers with a clearer picture, more programming, and frees up spectrum for advanced wireless broadband services and interoperable communications among emergency first responders. By February 17, 2009, consumers need to decide what do to with their analog televisions not connected to cable, satellite or other pay television service. Consumers can either: connect to cable, satellite, or a pay television service; replace it with a TV with a digital tuner; or use a TV converter box For consumers electing to continue the use of their analog televisions, the Magnavox (TB-100MW9) and Philco units (TB-100HH9, TB-150HH9) will be available through large retail stores beginning in early 2008. For detailed information on the TV Converter Box Coupon Program please visit: http://www.ntia.doc.gov/

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