What is Digital Television (DTV)?
Digital television (DTV) is an
innovative new type of over-the-air broadcasting
technology that enables TV stations to provide
dramatically clearer pictures and better sound quality.
For example, DTV makes it possible for KSPS to broadcast
multiple channels of free programming simultaneously
(called multicasting), instead of broadcasting only one
channel at a time.
Why the switch to DTV?
By law, television stations in
America must switch from the old method of transmitting
TV signals known as analog to digital television (DTV)
on February 17, 2009.
Who will be affected?
Viewers who receive free over-the-air
television signals through antennas or rabbit ears will
be affected. TV sets connected to cable or satellite may
not be affected; contact your service provider.
How can I switch to DTV?
 There are three
ways to make the switch:
-
DTV converter box
– Buy a DTV converter box that plugs into your
existing set and will let you keep receiving free
television reception and digital programming.
Beginning in early 2008, the U.S. federal government
will provide $40 coupons that you can use toward
purchasing the box. For more information about the
converter box coupon program, call 1-888-DTV-2009 or
visit DTV Coupon.
-
New television set
– Purchase a new television set that has a built-in
digital tuner.
-
Paid service –
Subscribe to cable or satellite and use your
existing TV, if all the desired local channels are
carried by the provider.
Can I keep my old TV set?
Yes. Keep your old television and
purchase a DTV converter box, or subscribe to cable or
satellite.
How do I know if I have an analog or digital
television set?
Look at your owner’s manual to see if
your set has a built-in Advanced Television Systems
Committee (ATSC) tuner. Or ask your retailer.
Is HDTV the same thing as DTV?
NO, HDTV is the highest quality of
DTV. You need a high definition TV set to see High
Definition TV. If you have an HDTV set, you can receive
free HDTV programming over the air using an antenna.
Do I need a special antenna to receive DTV
over-the-air?
If you currently need a rooftop
antenna to receive television, the same antenna will be
needed to receive DTV. Connect your antenna wiring to
your DTV converter box or digital TV.
How do I know what’s on the digital channels?
For KSPS, the most up-to-date
schedule listings for our digital channels visit our
schedule page.
New Digital Channels from KSPS
KSPS has more TV worth watching when you
switch to digital. Whether you have a digital
tuner in your TV, a converter box, or view us on
cable or satellite. you'll have more quality
television to choose from thanks to digital
broadcasting.
|
KSPS HD
Digital Over -The-Air
Channel 7.1
Comcast Channel 107
For channels on other
cable or satellite systems, check with your
provider.
|
KSPS Public Television HD
The same KSPS you've always
enjoyed, with better picture and sound quality.
Digital technology makes your programs clearer.
Depending on your digital TV or converter box,
you may also view the on-screen guide that we're
broadcasting.
|
KSPS World
Digital Over -The-Air
Channel 7.2
Comcast Channel 108
For channels on other
cable or satellite systems, check with your
provider.
|
Documentaries and Public
Affairs 24/7
KSPS World is a new channel
featuring documentary, public affairs, and new s
programming from public television's
award-winning signature series and acclaimed
independent filmmakers. Programs include popular
and critically acclaimed series like American
Experience, Frontline, History Detectives,
Nature, The NewsHour, Nova and Scientific
American Frontiers.
|
KSPS Create
Digital Over -The-Air
Channel 7.3
Comcast Channel 109
For channels on other
cable or satellite systems, check with your
provider.
|
Public Television's Most
Popular How-To Programs
KSPS Create's instructional
programs provide expert advice on cooking, arts
& crafts, gardening, home improvement and
travel. Tune in and be inspired to taste, grow,
imagine, explore and live more fully. On any
given day, enjoy This Old House, For Your Home,
Lidia's Family Table, Jacques Pepin, Rick Steves'
Europe, One Stroke Painting and America Sews.
Create TV
|
The answers to your questions regarding
DTV are here: DTV Answers.
The Federal
Communications Commission has developed an excellent
DTV web site (
www.dtv.gov ) that will answer all your
questions on DTV and HDTV. The site also provides a current program
schedule for DTV and HDTV programming.
If you have further questions about DTV on KSPS please give us a call
at 509.354.7800 or 1.800.735.2377 |
