When the Aztecs predicted that the world would end sometime in the 21^st century it’s almost conceivable that they may have meant the day the TVs died, at least in North America. On February 17, 2009, analog TVs will be kaput and in their places digital cable will rein. Cable companies have been scrambling to come up with ways to easily transfer customers who currently have analog but there have been some who are a bit hesitant, mostly because of the prices.

 

In lieu of causing mass riots the government has distributed coupons in the amount of $40 each to apply against a basic converter box which can be found at Best Buys or Circuit Cities. However, Retrevo, a Web site that helps consumers find, buy and use electronics to simplify and enhance people's digital lifestyle, has reported their new DTV Info Center, that will help people with analog TV signals convert to digital TV signals.

 

"Instead of spending $30, $50 or even $100 every month, cut the cable or toss the dish, and invest $20 in an antenna and another $20 on a DTV converter box that changes new digital signals to analog signals your old TV understands," said Vipin Jain, Retrevo founder and CEO. "They're super easy to install.”

Retrevo has compiled information about converter boxes on their Web site as well as alternative suggestions. According to the National Association of Broadcasters, billions of dollars have been invested to bring next generation television to American consumers. Today, there are more than 1,630 stations in 211 markets delivering digital TV.

 

“This is the biggest change to standard TV signals since color TVs were introduced over 50 years ago," said Jain. "…there are so many variables we thought it best put all the data in one place and make it easy and fun for people to navigate and read."

 

Added Eisner: "And if you're worried that cutting the cable habit will leave you deprived of your favorite shows, the DTV Info Center has tips and tricks for connecting your TV to the family network so you can try out sites like hulu.com or the set-top box that lets you stream shows via Netflix including NBC's 'The Office' and Showtime's Weeds.”