hhgregg, a specialty retailer of consumer electronics, has announced today that in preparation for the digital broadcast transition it has begun stocking and selling coupon-eligible DTV (digital television) converter boxes in all of the company’s stores. 

Consumers will have the ability to redeem DTV converter box coupons provided by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and receive $40 toward the purchase price.

hhgregg is demonstrating its commitment to helping to educate consumers as the countdown to digital draws closer. The company has partnered with local television stations across the Midwest and Southeast where its stores are located to help consumers understand the impact that is expected from the transition. 

Consumers are also encouraged to go and speak with their local hhgregg store sales associates regarding any questions that they might have regarding the transition and the need for a digital converter box.

 

For easy access to information, hhgregg has added a new section to its website,

http://dtv.hhgregg.com/. This section of the website offers facts and insights about the transition, including a blog and FAQ sections.

hhgregg also provided answers to top questions regarding the digital broadcast transition that will go into effect next year. 

What is the FCC (News - Alert) digital tuner mandate?

At midnight on February 17, 2009 in the U.S., all full-power television stations will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100 percent digital broadcasting. Digital broadcasting is being mandated as it promises to provide a clearer picture and more programming options as well as freeing up airwaves for use by emergency responders.

How can I ensure I don't lose my ability to enjoy television programming?

If your television is connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service, it will not require a TV converter box from this program. Other consumers can purchase a digital-to-analog converter box; connect to cable, satellite or other pay service; or upgrade to a new DTV.

What does the digital converter box do?

The DTV converter box changes the over-the-air broadcast signals to a readable analog format for TVs that rely solely on over-the-air broadcasts for content as opposed to receiving programming through a cable or satellite subscription. 

Where can I go to apply for a coupon?

The $40 coupon can be applied for online at www.dtv2009.gov or by calling the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline at1-888-DTV-2009.

The anticipated conversion to digital television promises to bring quality television viewing to consumers all over the country. The challenge is to adequately communicate changes to all consumers before their television set goes black and they don’t understand why.

 

hhgregg is taking a proactive approach to customer service by helping to inform customers of what they need to effectively make the change. Considering that many retailers are turning to just pushing DTV sets, hhgregg’s focus on really educating the customer is an admirable strategy.