All televisions must be ready for the a huge switch to all-digital broadcasts by Feb. 19, 2009, according to a congressionally mandated order.

However, before Americans rush out to buy new HDTVs with all the latest accessories, are they really necessary?

Whether or not people need to make any purchases all depends on the type of television they own now and what kind of service they use.

Those who subscribe to cable or satellite service can continue to use their current TV set, regardless of its age. These services do not require the use of an over-the-air tuner so subscribers will still be able to receive all of their regular channels, including local broadcasts.

Even those who rely on free broadcasts picked up on an antenna may not be affected. Most televisions bought after March 2007 already include a built-in digital tuner.

People who have older sets and do not subscribe to cable or satellite services do have some options. If they do not want to purchase a whole new set, they can instead buy a DVD player or recorder with a digital tuner.

The owers of such television sets could also choose to buy an external digital-to-analog converter box and can even apply for federal government vouchers to cover the cost.

Changing to a digital format will allow television viewers to experience a clearer picture on their screens. In addition, digital uses about half the bandwidth of
analog so the switch will free up space on the electromagnetic spectrum for other uses, like emergency and public safety communications.

Some of this space will also be sold and used to finance various government projects.

Along with the switch of televisions, a push to phase out analog telephones has also began.

The process of switching from a traditional copper line phone system to the new VOIP, or Voice Over IP Network, system is already underway at Lee University.

Director of Information Services and Technology Craig Gray notes that updating the old system is necessary.

“The current infrastructure in most buildings cannot be expanded without…massive overhauls,” Gray said. “Additionally, the copper in the ground has begun to degrade, is very difficult to service, and cannot be replaced. We know that the lifespan of those cables has a clear and definitive end, and that end is in sight.”

Despite the changes to the current system at Lee, analog phones in dormitories will most likely never be replaced. Instead, the university will feed those lines with a digital signal.

“We will install digital to analog converters to allow the use of the traditional Cortelco analog phones,” said Gray. “This will allow us to maximize the use of the network, while at the same time minimizing cost where it is not necessary.”

The switch from analog to digital in both televisions and telephones will provide Americans with better quality in their devices.

Moreover, it will allow us to keep up with the ever-changing technology of today’s society. Fortunately, students living on Lee’s campus will not have to worry about making any purchases or improvements.

“This will be seamless for the users and will require no additional upgrades from them, “ said Gray