Are you ready for the switch? Long Islanders, as well as those around the country, are getting ready for the switch from analog to digital television.

Digital converter boxes will replace older televisions that rely on rabbit ears or antennae for service. The new boxes allow for these TV?s to receive the new digital signal. The federal government is offering $40 coupons toward the converter boxes, and electronic stores are selling them at a rapid pace. Officials say new TV?s are already equipped with converters.

Experts say the digital switch comes with new broadcast channels and better picture and sound.

Bob Papper, of Hofstra University, says that although more broadcast stations will be available through the digital switch, consumers may be confused with the new technology.

Customers of Cablevision, the parent company of News 12 Long Island, do not need a converter box. Also, anyone who pays for TV service with an old or new television will not be affected by the switch.

The original schedule for the digital transition was Feb. 17 but was pushed to Friday, June 12 so people would be prepared.

DTV.govTV Converter Box Coupon ProgramDTV AnswersOptimum iO TV