U.S. television stations must turn off their analog channels and broadcast exclusively in the new digital format (DTV) after Feb. 17, 2009. Digital television provides dramatically clearer pictures, better sound quality and more programming choices. Many viewers are already enjoying Vermont Public Television’s high definition (HD) and other digital services. We want to be sure every VPT viewer comes with us into the digital age, and we’re eager to help you with the information you need so you don’t lose VPT and other channels after Feb. 17, 2009. On that day, by law, we must pull the plug on analog broadcasting.

If you’re already receiving digital TV
Click here for the complete programming schedule.

If you’re not yet receiving digital TV
First, it’s important to know how you receive VPT and other local channels now, in order to know what you need to do to receive digital television.

Cable
If you get your TV from a cable or telephone provider like Comcast, Charter, Burlington Telecom or one of the many smaller cable companies), your cable company will see that you continue to get local stations. U.S. viewers, unless you have a HD television set and want to subscribe to a special HD tier, you will not need any additional equipment. Viewers in Canada, we are awaiting information about how cable companies will handle the transition.

Satellite
If you get your TV from one of the U.S. satellite services, DirecTV or DISH Network, your satellite company will see that you continue to get local stations.

Antenna
If you receive over-the-air television programming by rabbit ears or other type of indoor or outdoor antenna and want to continue using your antenna, you will need either a newer digital TV set or a digital converter box connected to each older analog television set you use. Click here to learn about the US Government's Converter Box Coupon Program. We suggest you request your coupons now, as supplies are limited, and there is a backlog of about two months from the time you place your request to the time you receive your coupon in the mail. Once you purchase your converter box, connect it right away, so you can tell if you’re receiving digital channels successfully.

Note to Viewers in Bennington County who receive VPT over the air from low-power analog translator channels 36 Manchester and 53 Bennington. Regulations are different for these channels, and they will continue to broadcast after February 2009. You’ll want to purchase a converter box that passes both analog and digital signals. It's still a good idea to order your coupons now. Please contact us for more information.

Viewing in Canada
Click here to find out what you need to know.

Not sure how you receive VPT?
Or, not sure what kind of TV set you have? Give us a call at 1-800-639-7811 or email us, and we’ll help you sort it out.

Simple Summary

If your TV set is:	And you get your programming from:	You will need the following by 2/17/09:
Analog	Over the air by antenna	Digital-to-analog converter box
Analog	Cable or satellite	Your service provider will address
Digital	Over the air by antenna	Nothing more
Digital	Cable or satellite	Your service provider will address