We’ve all seen the ads…digital TV is coming! First, it was February, 2009. Then, it was moved to June 12th…the FINAL deadline for terminating analog broadcasts under legislation passed by Congress. What is it, why is it happening, and should you get a new TV for it?

Digital Television (DTV) is an advanced broadcasting technology designed to transform your television viewing experience. DTV enables broadcasters to offer television with better picture and sound quality, as well as multiple programming choices, called multicasting.

In 1996, the U.S. Congress authorized the distribution of an additional broadcast channel to each broadcast TV station, facilitating the start of a digital broadcast channel while simultaneously continuing their analog broadcast channel. Later, Congress set June 12, 2009 as the final date that full power television stations can broadcast analog signals. As of June 13, 2009, full power television stations will only broadcast digital, over-the-air signals.

One benefit of the switch to all-digital broadcasting is that it will free up parts of the valuable broadcast spectrum for public safety communications (such as police, fire departments, and rescue squads). Additionally, a portion of the spectrum will be auctioned to companies that will be able to provide consumers with more advanced wireless services (such as wireless broadband).

Consumers benefit because digital broadcasting allows stations to offer improved picture and sound quality; plus, digital is more efficient than analog. Ultimately, DTV means more programming choices for viewers.

Perhaps you have been considering a new TV because you are still using the “bunny ear” technology of 1972. Contemplating a 50” plasma TV for your living room, but thinking “these new TVs are so BIG, where will I find room for it – and all this new technology – in my modest split-level (also from 1972)?”

TV lift technology is to TV storage what DTV is to consumers – advanced technology designed to enhance the overall TV viewing experience! Not only can a TV lift be customized to your specific needs (like exact viewing height); the cabinets and consoles housing TV lifts are available in a variety of beautiful woods and motifs, upgrading your entire TV viewing experience!