TECHNOLOGY IN OUR LIVES |
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(NAPSI)-With only a short time left before TV channels go all digital, many people are wondering if it's better to upgrade an old TV or replace it with a newer model. Consumers who receive their local broadcast stations through a paid provider such as cable or satellite TV are already prepared for the DTV transition. Those who rely on free, over-the-air television programming by using rooftop antenna or "rabbit ears" on their sets can either purchase a digital television or purchase a digital-to-analog converter box so they can continue to receive free, over-the-air programming. The federal government is offering $40 discount coupons for consumer purchase of Digital TV converter boxes. Coupons can be requested at www.DTV2009.gov or by calling 1-888-DTV-2009. Consumers who rely on closed-captioning services have expressed concern about how the digital-to-analog converter boxes will work and whether consumers will continue to receive that service. A reliable digital-to-analog converter box can also generate and display digital closed captions that offer choices for size and color of the on-screen type. One of the better models, according to many product reviewers, is the Zenith DTT901 converter box. Other convenient features of the Zenith box include V-Chip parental control, a simple program guide to tell you what TV programs are on next, and a signal meter to help with positioning your antenna. Many advocates for Americans with disabilities praise this particular converter box for its enhanced features. "One of our biggest concerns during the transition to all-digital TV broadcasting is how manufacturers of converter boxes would accommodate people with disabilities," said Jenifer Simpson, senior director of telecommunications & technology policy for the American Association of People with Disabilities. She said the Zenith model's remote control has a closed-caption button that allows immediate access to closed-captioning services, and it has video description capability for viewers with vision disabilities. Setting up the converter involves connecting an antenna, putting the included battery in the remote control and connecting the box to the TV's antenna input. A channel scan can be accomplished in seconds. To learn more, visit www.Zenith.com/dtv. When selecting a digital TV converter box, look for a converter that offers features like access to closed captioning right on the remote control. |
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