Answers to 10 common questions about DTV

— -- Unless Congress delays it, the transition to all-digital television broadcasts is just weeks away. Many Americans are confused about the switch. Each week, I receive many questions about DTV. Here are answers to the 10 most-asked questions:

Question: When will broadcasts go digital?

Answer: Unless Congress extends the deadline, all full-power, over-the-air broadcasts must be digital by Feb. 17. Some consumer advocates have called for a delay. They say the transition was poorly managed and underfunded. At the time of this writing, there are no plans to delay the transition. Prepare now, and you're ready no matter what.

Q: A clerk at Wal-Mart said radio stations will also go all-digital. Will I need a new radio?

A: Your current radios will continue to work. Digital TV has nothing to do with radio.

However, digital radio broadcasts are becoming common. Most major stations broadcast in both digital and analog. Digital radio, known as HD Radio, is free. Digital satellite radio requires a paid subscription. Both require special radios. (HD Radio is a brand name. It doesn't stand for high definition or anything else.)

Q: How can I tell if my televisions have digital tuners?

A: Virtually all HDTVs have digital tuners. The problem lies with older standard-definition sets.

You need an ATSC tuner to receive digital signals. Do not confuse ATSC with NTSC tuners, which only receive analog signals. Check the back of your TV, the manual or the manufacturer's website to find out what kind of tuners are in the TV. If you don't have ATSC tuners, you'll need DTV converter boxes.

Q: My converter box coupons expired. Can I get new coupons?

A: The government is subsidizing DTV converter boxes. Each household is eligible for two $40 coupons. The coupons are valid for 90 days. Lost or expired coupons won't be reissued. A friend or family member may have unused coupons. You can use their unexpired coupons.

Q: What type of antenna do I need to receive digital TV?

A: Your old antenna should work with digital broadcasts. That's true for both indoor and outdoor antennas. Antennas optimized for DTV and HDTV may help with bad reception. However, some dispute the efficacy of these antennas.