Why is the Government making everyone buy digital converter boxes?

The government is now making all the channels HD (High Definition) so anyone who doesnt own an HD TV Will need one on FEB.17.2009 in order to watch TV. So the government is giving away $40 coupons to buy the converter boxes. Why are they doing this?Why is the Government making everyone buy digital converter boxes?
You have your facts all wrong.





First, The government requirement is TV broadcasters go digital. HD is optional, although many broadcasters are using that option.





Next, the government is not ';requiring'; anybody having to get boxes or upgrade their TV sets. Getting a converter box or new TV is just an option. One can choose to watch nothing, subscribe to cable or satellite, or live off DVDs and such.





The coupon program is intended to help disadvantaged people afford the change.





So far, the analog turn off date seems to be June 12 now.Why is the Government making everyone buy digital converter boxes?
The government is making all channels digital, not necessarily high definition. The transition to digital television is being done because:


1) It is more flexible and efficient than the analog system.


2) It provides more clearer picture and sound.


3) It provides more channels and programming.


4) It frees up the frequency spectrum, currently used by the analog system, for other uses.





The only reason you need to buy a digital converter box is if you watch over-the-air television and have an older analog television set. If you have a new digital television, it already has the digital receiver.





If you have an older analog television connected to cable or satellite, you will not need a digital converter box now to watch television. But, you may need it in the future. That is, the cable providers may decide to stop their analog transmissions through their cables at a later date.





The government is giving away $40 coupons to make it easier for the consumer to transition to digital television.
The government is trying to control how we watch TV. Pretty soon they will only broadcast what they want us to watch just like some other countries and or used to do.





It's Big Brother, man! 1984. George Orwell. It's here!








I am kidding, but I do think this whole thing is dumb. I have yet to hear a good explanation of why it is necessary. Will it save money in the long run? Is it better for the environment? Will it lessen our dependence on foreign oil? Will it cure cancer? Why?
The answer is simple. The government does not like poor people.





AKA low income
so they can make some money on a cheep scam.