Digital Television
In 2009, all tv stations across the U.S. must switch to digital broadcasting.
WGBY Turned off our analog signal
on November 5, 2008.
After April 27, 2009, you will have to rescan with your digital converter box or digital television to receive WGBY.
If you are having trouble with WGBY reception after this date,
please call our DTV hotline at 800-781-9429.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
By law, all U.S. television stations are switching from analog to new digital broadcasts in June, 2009 (Congress extended this deadline from February 17, 2009). Some stations, including WGBY, are making the switch earlier. Digital television (DTV) is a more efficient technology that provides clearer pictures, better sound and will free up the airwaves for a variety of other new services.
WILL YOU BE AFFECTED?
If you are one of millions of consumers who receive free TV through a rooftop antenna or "rabbit ears" on your television, you WILL have to take action to continue receiving free television.
If you are paying for cable or satellite services, you should NOT be affected. But, any TV set in your home that is NOT connected to cable or satellite, or does not have a built-in digital tuner, will need to be upgraded in order to keep receiving free, over-the-air television.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IF YOU ARE AFFECTED
Analog sets that receive free, over the air television via a rooftop or set-top antenna will need to be upgraded with a digital, set-top converter box. These boxes will be available from several manufacturers through major retail outlets beginning this spring with costs ranging from $40-80. To help defray the cost, the federal government has established a $40 voucher program that is available to the general public. For details on converter boxes and information on how to apply for the voucher, see the Resources section below.
WHY DID WGBY TURN OFF OUR ANALOG SIGNAL IN NOVEMBER 2008?
WGBY is making the switch early because of the New England weather. While some stations need to make simple wiring changes for the digital transition, WGBY must install a new antenna. The antenna is located at the top of Mt. Tom and you can imagine how our harsh winters can make access and working conditions not only difficult but dangerous for those involved with the installation. Putting the new antenna in place during the warmer fall weather will help ensure our transition is completed on budget, on time and most importantly, in a safe manner.
RESOURCES
To learn more about digital television, find answers to frequently asked questions and get details on how the DTV transition may impact you:
To learn more about the federal converter-box program or to apply for a voucher:
If you need clarification on any issue related to DTV or whether or not you will be affected, WGBY is here to help. Please contact us at 866-598-4265 during normal business hours or email us anytime at dtvinfo@wgby.org.
WGBY's Digital Channel Selections
WGBY World
Comcast 209, Time Warner 1898, Charter 222, WGBY DT 58.2
24 hours a day, seven days a week, WGBY World presents the best of PBS documentary, public affairs and news programming. With award-winning series like Frontline, The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, Tavis Smiley, Charlie Rose, Nightly Business Report and American Experience, you’ll always find thought-provoking stories, thorough investigations and trustworthy voices –whenever you decide to watch.
www.worldcompass.org
WGBY Kids
Comcast 217, Time Warner 1897, Charter 153, WGBY DT 58.3
Each weekday, WGBY Kids doubles the options of family-friendly children’s programs from WGBY. With familiar faces like Clifford and new friends like the animal heroes from Redwall, your family will enjoy these fun, educational shows, all presented to fit your family's schedule, from the station you count on to deliver shows you trust and your children love.
WGBY Create
Comcast 237, Time Warner 1899, Charter 223, WGBY DT 58.4
During the week, spend your mornings and afternoons getting practical, reliable info on everything from home improvement and decorating to cooking, travel, and antiquing. With programs like Lidia’s Italy, America Quilts Creatively, Simply Ming, Rick Steve’s Europe and This Old House, WGBY Create is dedicated to helping you enjoy the fun things in life! www.createtv.com
WGBY HD
Comcast 857, Time Warner 1807, Charter 782, WGBY DT 58.1
Enjoy the best of WGBY & PBS in razor-sharp high-definition. From classic PBS favorites like NOVA and Masterpiece to local favorites like Making it Here and On the Menu, WGBY-HD is great television, defined.
(WGBY DT is also down-converted and shown on basic cable where WGBY's Analog channel used to be.)
View our Online Program Schedules.