Philco TB100HH9: A DTV set-top box with analog pass-through

With the clock marking the DTV transition ticking more loudly every day, we're starting to see more converter boxes showing up in stores. We recently posted First Look reviews of three boxes—the $50 Magnavox TB100MW9, the $60 Insignia NS-DXA1, and the $60 Zenith DTT900. Now we've just completed our preliminary tests on one of the first boxes with "analog pass-though" capability, the Philco TB100HH9.

Analog pass-through can be an important feature for households in areas served by so-called "low-power" broadcasters. Though all full-power stations are required to broadcast only digital signals as of February 17, 2009, the low-power broadcasters can continue analog broadcasts, at least for the time being. Since the converter box does not include an analog tuner, you will have to continue using your TV's built in analog tuner to pick up these stations. A converter box with analog pass through will not only put digital programs on the RF antenna output to the TV (channel 3 or 4), but will also pass along traditional analog antenna signals as well. For more information, check out "The DTV Transition: The low-down about analog pass-though."

A low-priced option

Priced at $47, the Philco TB100HH9 is a compact, no-frills box that's similar in many ways to the Magnavox TB100MW9 we tested. Like that model, it has a built-in ATSC tuner that can receive digital off-air signals and convert them to analog. Unlike the Magnavox box, however, the Philco allows analog signals to bypass the digital circuitry, routing them directly to a TV with an analog tuner.

The Philco performed its basic functions well. Picture quality from its antenna RF output was decent; it improved slightly when we used the composite-video output. While the digital tuner can pull in digital HD signals, they're converted to standard-def analog inside the box. Some images had jagged edges, especially when HD images were converted to standard definition.

Tuner sensitivity tests showed that this model performs as well with off-air digital signals as other converters and flat-panel HDTVs we've tested. (Note: Analog reception will depend on the sensitivity of the TV's built-in tuner). A signal-strength meter, located in the channel information banner, helps you adjust the antenna's position for optimal reception.

The box proved fairly easy to use. An electronic program guide offers the program title, run time, a brief summary of each show, as well as a 7-hour timeline for the currently tuned channel. A "setup wizard," which appears the first time you power on the device, makes the initial set-up and channel scan fairly simple. You can adjust the color and size of the fonts in Closed Caption, and aspect-ratio controls let you adjust the size and shape of the programs, so widescreen HD broadcasts can appear either as a letterboxed images with black bars above and below the picture, or they can be zoomed and cropped to fill a squarish 4:3 screen. Unlike some converter boxes, though, there's no aspect ratio button on the remote—you have to change it using the set-up menu. The box itself has no controls; since they're all located on the remote, you won't be able to use this box should you lose or break the remote control.

A minor note: The Philco is colored white, rather than dark gray or black like most converters we've seen.

The Bottom Line

This Philco TB100HH9 provides access to free off-air digital programs for analog TV owners on a budget, and enabling those who receive analog broadcasts from low-power stations to continue enjoying them after the DTV transition in 2009. However, its only fair performance with downconverted HD programs means that those who want optimal picture quality, particularly on TVs with larger screens, may want to look elsewhere. While there may be better converters, this Philco is still worth its $47 price, especially since you can use a $40 government rebate to defray most of its cost.

Comments

[DSCGOONIE]

I live in the Denver area and tested different antennas. I have concluded that a tiny antenna is best. I use just the basic double rabbit ear antenna(not powered, and no round UHF antenna), and only pull out 2 of the sections to keep it very short.

[Gary]

I have three of the new digital boxes. The Philco is by far the worst of the bunch....very few functions on the remote, and a slow connection from one channel to the next. The RCA works great, and I love the size of the buttons on the remote. The Digital Stream is the best, it is awsome....wish the buttons were easier to see, my eyes are not what they used to be, every feature is first class!!!!!!!

[Max Roberts]

Thank you for the info on the watch/record issue. Does anyone know why the box is not working with the DVD/VCR at all?

[everett whitney]

TO: Max - 27 July - " Mom needs DVR/VCR to Record 1 / watch another.."

Sorry, but with only (1) of these federal coupon Converters, she can not.

Only a single digital tuner in ALL ... hence, there's no means for one to record (1) channel while simultaneously watching a different one unless you buy / connect two Converters, etc., one for the TV , the other for the recorder. Rather "busy" for her to easily keep track of, as well.

No neat solution now, other than cable & their "rental" Recorders.

[Soupy]

Radio Shack carries the Digital Stream DTX9950 with analog pass-through for only $59.99. Also, If the store is sold out they can ship a unit (Free Shipping) to your home within 30 days.

[Max Roberts]

I recently hooked this converter up for my Mom, and am having some problems. If I hook it up directly to tthe TV, everything works great, nice picture etc. However, when I try to hook it up through her DVD/VCR all I get is a blank blue screen. The DVD/VCR works fine, but no TV signal at all. I did carefully check all the connections, I used the recommended RCA cables, I followed the instructions in the manual exactly. She needs the DVD/VCR so she can record her shows, watch one record the other etc. Her DVD/VCR is made by Samsung Model DVD-V4600. Does anyone have any idea what I am doing wrong? Or, is there a compatabi;lity issue here? Any help would be appreciated!

[everett whitney]

TO: James A. -" Only (1) digital reception w/ attic antenna?"

* All antennas within an attic will "lose" nearly 50 % of the available digital signal via that roof construction timbers / decking + outside roofing shingles.

* Your current antenna may possibly be a variety that Only has up to channel # 13 - VHF . Some cities do broadcast their signals for digital TV on this ( Chicago, NYC, + others).

However, most use above #13, which dictates a UHF band antenna .

Visually, that first VHF type resembles a huge, very long arrow, with elements in multiple horizontal rows, sort of like flying geese (backwards).

The UHF will be a much smaller array, sometimes looking like a series of 'bow ties' or a vertical assortment of much shorter, more compact set of short rods.

If that long coax is of a good quality, not old & of RG6 rather than the older analog RG59, it's O.K.. Runs of 100 feet or more are not recommended.

Amplifiers do work - but - are to be used as a last resort, in my experiences. Far better to have a sufficient antenna, mounted outside, as high as possible upon one's roof on a metal mast.

A 'combo' type - both VHF & UHF - is the most safe one to buy, since some assignments Will change after next Feb..

Before spending monies, simply do relocate your current one outside instead. Use a length of rigid 1 1/4" conduit and a weatherhead ( used for electrical entrance service) thru a roof flashing instead of the flimsy, thin TV masts w/ multiple guy support wires.

Then, the Quad RG6 Coax may be passed down thru the center of that conduit into the attic, without needing to be flapping in the wind all along the roof !

If you'd care to, try C.R,'s .. "antenna, cable, satellite" .. Forum - there's lots more available there, as well.

Everett

[everett whitney]

TO: CW - " A Way to test HD on Converter ...?"

No Converter will output any HD signal at all ... the federal specification is strictly to have the digital O.T.A. signals changed to analog, which by definition is not technically capable of anything approaching "HD."

These Converters are Not involved in any way with "HD" or cable or satellite, for that matter.

[everett whitney]

To: Sandy S. - 21 JUNE - " Converter for new P.C. + pass- thru to record ?"

Unless you do also happen to have a video card & tuner inside that computer, no, you need NO converter for it.

Convereters are only for changing digital O.T.A. signals back into analog for those with picture tube TVs. These have nothing to do with you internet connection per se.

You posted .. new computer .. so, IF it did come w/ a video card and tuner, it also will have more than likely been built with an ATSC ( digital ) tuner ... so, again, no Converter.

Your husband doesn't "need" to have pass thru simply to be able to record .... that is more for those areas / small places with private & very small TV broadcasters that are NOT going to change to digital ever. So, the feature will
"send on" those signals which are already analog to the TV.

However, he will not record one channel while watching a different one anymore with a Converter.

[Sandy Savage]

I am wondering if I need a converter box for my computer monitor since I don't have cable. I live in a large city in Ohio and my monitor is fairly new.

Secondly, my husband loves to record shows for later viewing and he was thinking he had to get a pass through converter box like the Philco or Magnavox TB 100MG9. However, after reading all the problems with those 2 models we were rather discouraged. Does he have to have the pass through feature to record or just to see analog only stations like the WB53(Smallville show). Thanks for any insight you might have.

Our coupon expires the end of June! We didn't realize the gov. was going to add an expiration date to the coupons or we would have waited a bit longer before requesting the coupon. I guess it is better than finding out they have run out of the coupons!

[Charles]

Well, based upon the CU review of the Insignia (LG) converter and some additional input from the blogs, I bought & installed the Insignia two weeks ago. I have it hooked up to a 20" Apex TV, using a powered Jensen set of rabbit ears, and connected it to the video/audio inputs.

Previously, I could receive 10 channels in the Central Florida area - I now can receive 31 channels, and the picture/audio is remarkable! You can definitely see the difference in digital!

I can just imagine what this unit would do with a decent outside antenna...

The Insignia is very easy to use, and has a surprising amount of features (picture aspect, program display, signal strength, etc). I didn't have much of an expectation for this unit, but, I was pleasantly surprised.

To sum it up, my second coupon expires on July 4th - I'm going back to Best Buy and get another for my other non-cable TV. I think that says it all.

[CW]

I have the Philco and have tried to test it but no success. I get some HD stations on my cable so I hooked it up to the box. The HD stations don't scan but the analog will come thru. Is this only for over-the-air HD? I thought I could test it this way but apparently not. Over-the-air broadcasts are not possible in current location. Don't have an outside antenna and even if I did the stations are about one hour away driving so cable right now is it. I got the box for the future when I do move to a different location. Is there a way to test the HD stations thru the cable line (direct, not thru a cable box) passing thru the Philco? Repeated scans and tries result in no HD stations.

[Russell Baer]

This is clearly going to be a rough transition. Many consumers won't know until cutoff date EXACTLY which channels they'll get. Not all are simultaneously broadcasting digital now - and not all are running at full power. Some channels will be REASSIGNED, so what you might get now on UHF will end up on VHF frequencies or vice versa. Current converter box availability is spotty and abysmal: trying to actually find a good selection to choose from in-stock is rare. Of the boxes that are shipping - most are Revision A - and may need further iterations to work out some of the manufacturing/component issues.

As some have pointed out - Digital signals are far less forgiving than Analog. Many consumers will find that they may be forced to upgrade their antenna for quality, distance - and again - depending on final Channel Assignments - may need a Combo VHF/UHF antenna, a preamp, rotator, or an outdoor rooftop antenna to truly receive Digital stations properly. The real problem there is everyone's situation is UNIQUE. Each has to factor in your particular environment ranging from distance, interfernce, structures, topology, etc. So my advice to anyone pondering this transition is to think beyond the converter box itself to antenna choices you may have to make as well.

[Karla]

I just bought the Philco TB100HH9 and only see black and white on my color TV. I connected my indoor VHF/UHF rabbit-ears antenna to my converter box and then connected the box to my TV. Right now, I have my analog TV coming through the TV selection and either the digial TV or DVD player coming through the Video selection (I only have 2 choices on my TV, so it's either digital TV or DVD for the Video selection, depending on which is on). Is the black and white display a result of getting poor signals (I only get two channels now, whereas I used to get 4-5 with mediocre reception at times)? I've tried disconnecting the DVD player, but that doesn't seem to have any effect on the digital display of black/white. Any help is appreciated! At this point, I'm prepared to return the box and go without TV! There's always the library as a free source of DVDs!

[James Alexanderson]

If anyone can help I'd be grateful. I bought a Magnavox TB100MG9 from Sears (no refunds) and connected it. Where I got a dozen clear analog channels, with the box I get exactly ONE digital channel! So once the conversion to digital happens, I'll be down to just this one channel (which I don't even like). :(

I live in a hilly area, have a large antenna in the attic on the second floor, plus an antenna amp. These give excellent analog reception. But the Magnavox box picks up just the one digital channel.

There is a long coax lead in from the antenna. Does digital degrade in a long coax cable? If so, I could probably find a route for the cable down through a wall that would shorten the length. A lot of work, so is this really worth doing? I will if I have to.

Do different brands of converter boxes have tuners that vary in their sensitivity? Is the TB100MG9 known to have low sensitivty? If so, would anyone recommend a particular brand that has high sensitivity?

Thanks for any help!

[Al]

Review of philco.
1) works fine. using 'coat hanger hdtv antenna' on youtube picks up most signals here in San Antonio. Used antenna inside the house which is down in a gully (bad for signals all around). The new antenna gives twice the signal over a my simple circle/bowtie uhf antenna.
2) pass-through causes some signal loss and unit must be ON to get the pass through. Better to use a switch to hook up rabbit ears. I have a vcr, etc on my tv so i don't use the pass-through at all.
Also, 7 button presses needed to set pass-through mode so switching it on and off is a pain (you might want to switch if you are using the coax output for the 'digital' tv stations to your tv).
3) remote voted 'worst remote' due to keys sized for a gerbil and needing a 'fingernail press' to use reliably. Has a limited range of about 7 feet.
3) can't switch tv aspect ratio (letterbox,zoom/crop,fill) unless you do about 4 or 5 button presses.
4) no problems that i noticed with audio except that some stations use just right and some use just left channel.
5) picture is dvd-clear.
6) must scan in any low-signal digital stations or it will ignore them if you punch in the numbers directly. solution: put a power booster on your antenna or get/make a better antenna or move it outside.

[everett whitney]

To Pat -26 May " Mine expires .... why ?"

The initial allotment of Federal Coupons were unrestricted -
i.e. - to those on cable or satellite as well as only on antenna .

Going onward, only .. antenna service strictly .. will be accepted.

[Pat]

Be sure to CHECK THE EXPIRATION DATE on your coupon. Mine expires on July 4, 2008. It would have made sense to have unlimited eligibility, as more and better boxes will become available as Feb 19 draws near. But for some reason the government is forcing you to make a quick decision on a limited array of converters.

[everett whitney]

TO: Sylvia - 22 May - " Got My Converter BUT ?? ..."

Your 'post' omitted the nature of the antenna being used ?

One that does very work well above channel #13 will be mandatory except in Chicago & NYC, etc.. Essentially all digital signals are on the "UHF" band - not the "VHF" of Channels #2-#13 used for our old analog TV.

Additionally, our former "V" shaped, long metal rods or set-top rabbit ears will definitely need HELP! Not appropriate at all.

There are many - one web site to help is www.solidsignal.com

Depending upon how far from those TV Towers, nearby trees, tall buildings, etc., a Channel Master # 4228, or DB-2, DB-4 & DB-8 are some suitable for digital signals.

Go to the C.R. Forums for much more, too.

[sylvia]

I just got my convert from HEB and I can not seem to some channels

[Manny]

I bought my Philco converter box from Meijer (Michigan) for $49.99 less the $40 coupon from the Fed. The box works great based on my test drive. Just do not lose the remote. I will use my other coupon with my future purchase of the Echostar converter box. Hopefully, it would have much better features.

[Mike]

Where can I purchase this Philco unit online for $47.00?

[Jim]

BJ,

Somethings wrong - these are government issued coupons usable at many vendors, including on-line vendors, for at least 30 different convertors (although not all of the models are available yet). Many vendors are listed in the letter that comes with the the coupon. Somebody misled you. You can't get a cash refund, but you should insist on exchange or store credit for the coupon amount and cash refund for the rest.

[Lee]

I have the Magnavox TB100MG9 STB which has analog pass thru. One thing not mentioned is the signal loss when using the STB in analog pass thru mode. Any snow in the analog station when normally connected to the tv will not give any signal to the tv when connected thru the STB. I think the analog pass thru was an after thought and not well designed into the STB.

[everett whitney]

To - B.J. - 15 May - "Old Antenna / rabbit ears Won't work"

Missing from the headlines or NOT properly emphasized is the fact that digital converters Must have an adequate digital - UHF - signal (Channels above # 13)!

Many antennas are only VHF ( #2-#13).

Generally, inside - especially rabbit ears- are not going to be successful or appropriate.

You HAD to shop extremely hard in order to have even found any left-over new TVs post Katrina which did not already contain a digital tuner - that was a FCC requirement long ago.

Unless one is within eyesight of the TV Towers specifically, there will be inconsistent results with 'rabbit ears' - even an attic antenna, UHF specific unit will have difficulties at times due to the 40 % - 50 % losses from the roofing construction!

Get a new outside UHF antenna & all will be much better.
One such is a Channel Master # 4228. Others would be a DB-8 ... DB-4 .. depending upon your distance, obstructions, etc., either with a proper Coax Cable.

Go to www.solidsignal.com for added help.

[BJ]

My $40 coupons came with one choice of vendor and one choice of converter, $60 Energy Star DTX9900. All that bought me was a 'weak signal' screen. Both my outdoor antenna and my rabbit ears have worked fine for years. Put me in the "outraged" category. I can throw away the replacement TV sets I bought after Katrina. It's a sin and a shame this industry windfall is being foisted upon the demographic who can least afford to fight it.

[everett whitney]

To: Salandra V. - 14 May - "Analog now or wait ?"

Yes, there are now / will be O.T.A. analog until next Feb ... .. "forever" if your stations are all "Low power", as these need not Not convert. In that case, no Converter Box anyway.

Simply hook up the antenna straight to the RF input at the rear of the TV --- if you did mean in addition to a Converter Box, then, you'll need an "A-B " Switch to change between the two signal sources - around $ 10.

[Salanda Villafane]

I would also like to know where to find it for $47. I've only seen it for $79.90 on line at solidsignal.com. If what you are saying is true, they are ripping people off. One question I have is if you don't get a converter with analog pass thru, can you still get tv signals now? Or do you have to wait until all stations switch to digital?

[Alex]

I found the Philco at Fred Meyer. They didn't have them displayed you have to ask for them.

[Al]

philco: available on and off at HEB in San Antonio for $40. it is the same as the magnavox (walmart) and the silvania (sears) - well, it may or may not be identical as the insides have not been posted that I have seen but the manuals are the same. They are all made by Funai Electric Co. Whats with the gray bars on letterbox? black is nice and then they wouldn't have to warn about burning-in the tv.
The RCA, sometimes available at walmart, but not tested in this article, but does have decent reviews elsewhere, does not have a pass-through but has basic buttons on the console and has a remote that does the box AND the TV. It is $50 but hard to find in stock.

[Nita]

Thanks for the heads-up on requesting the cards for the $40.00 discount. I was approved for two today, and with the price of gas and utilities on the rise, I may lose the dish network, or at least go to the minimum pakage (boo hoo) but I'm happy to hear I can get great HDTV reception over the air, with an HDTV converter box. Wow, I had no idea! I'm tired of losing my signal every time a little ole' tornado goes by anyway. (Weekly lately)
Anyway, keep up the good work C.R.! Keep us posted on those converter boxes, btw, the gov. approved list was up to 80 as of today, 15 of which can pass analog signals through to the TV set.
Now, I guess I'll have to get a TIVO. I'm addicted to my DVR. Happy Mother's Day!

[bearly here]

For the person asking where to get the Philco-- saw it at Fred Meyers today. Not sure if you have those stores where you are at. But here in the NW they are a fairly major chain

[Charlie]

I was in a Radio Shack this morning to check out some converter boxes (finally got my coupon after a long wait) and the store associate told me that Zenith issued a recall on their boxes due to an audio channel problem. Any truth to this?

[everett whitney]

TO: " Theodore - 01 May - a Converter that does Both ?"

That's what a "pass-thru" Converter Box does, such as the Philco recently reviewed. There are others, too.

[Theodore Padgett]

Where can I find a TV digital converter that covers both NTS and ATS I am a novist. Thank you

[Keith]

As a career industrial tech. I am naturally very inquisitive about new tech. gear. I recommend everyone study the www.DTV2009.gov website and especially the NTIA's Final Rule discussion on eligible converter boxes. This will explain the minimum features of the CECB (converter box). It is very ineresting to research the additional features on the different brands. I have been testing the DIGITALSTREAM DTX9900 available @ Radio Shack in the Terre Haute, In. area. An 'Energy Star' rating, Dolby Digital capable and with minor external pushbutton controls added, this device is very satisfactory at a low cost. Reception and quality are good and I recieve additional channel programs that I could not receive on analog. As noted, many consumers may get very limited DTV reception in low-lying or obstructed locations. I find that this is generally a fantastic new advancement that proves to provide a new life for even many very old anolog recievers. On newer anolog recievers, picture quality appears near HD when set to an 'HD' broadcasting station or program. Finally our government has stepped in to provide an alternative to over-priced device markets and cable providers. Thank You Uncle Sam!!!!

[Mike Smith]

Robby's question is mine...where? I've searched all over for the Philco and can't find it.

[Robby]

The second paragraph say this is available for $47. WHERE WHERE WHERE?

[everett whitney]

TO : " Robin -21 April - Another Alternative but Costly -

One means will be to buy a "splitter" + a very small (the size of your palm) item called an "A -B" switch. Plus, a few short Coax Cable Jumpers. All would be @ the TV / Converter Box.

These "A/Bs" are available both manual & electronic, with a Remote. Do be certain all can be returned for a refund IF this doesn't "do" what you want.

Generally, it does have a single terminal which would go to the TV... the "B" could be connected to your Converter out & the "A" to the antenna coax from the new splitter. The opposite 'out' from the new splitter will go to the Convertor (in).

Obviously, a bit tedious. By-the-way, what leads you to believe that "quality, losses, etc." will be experienced with a Pass-thru Converter ? Far more simple & cheaper than the above, obviously .

[djdeanfl]

OK, I finally was able to locate the LG/Zenith box at Circuit City for a total of $23.89. For that price the transaction is as follows: box 59.99 tax 3.90 minus $40 coupon = $23.89
This is an awesome addition to anyone that doesn't pay for cable or satellite.
You must first do the box a favor and use a good set of rabbit ears. Never those powered ones, that's just a bunch of crap. It just takes what weak signal you have and amplifies it so you simply have more weak signal. Another bunch of crap are the ones that are "painted". The coloring is just another obstacle between the signal and the antenna. Occasionally take some steel wool or just plain ole aluminum foil and rub down the metal antenna parts to clean off smoke (for you smokers).
Back to the box: the box does not pass your old signal on to the TV. This is not cool but, I guess since you will now be able to get more channels (some completely new ones too) it shouldn't be a problem (until you want to record something on your old VCR using the antenna input. Like a cable box, you'll program the VCR for channel 3 recording and leave box "on" with channel selection at where program is to record). The picture is CLEAR. I get channels like Daytona and Cocoa Beach that were not viewable before. I have been consumed with these channels (PBS offers 4 vs. original 1) and have yet to see if the audio drops out on the strong channels too. This may be a trade-off for poor reception. Or, it could be a faulty box.
While or federal government has many flaws, I feel this program is a great way of moving us to new technology. Even us poor folks.

BTW, the all the cables are included and the remote (includes single AAA) is to skinny

[Lynn]

To Robin: There is energy coming out of the converter cable. If the antenna cable is connected here, the energy can travel backward up the antenna cable and actually come out of the antenna. This is not a healthy idea. This is mentioned in the hookup instructions for my VCR, by the way. If you want your idea to work, connect the converter to the tv using the two or three colored jacks and then hook the antenna to the cable jack. If there are no colored jacks, someone else will have to chime in with a suggestion. Just don't connect the converter output to antenna wiring.

[Robin]

Thanks for the reply everett whitney. I guess I didn't make my April 17th question clear. Can I buy a Converter Box that doesn't pass the analog signal through it and do what i asked? Because of quality and features, I am thinking of buying a Converter Box that doesn't pass the analog signal through it.

[everett whitney]

To: " Robin-17 April - Both Digital & Analog ? "

Unless there is a "miscommunication" what you are asking is exactly what is done with the latest Philco Converter Box recently added to the reviews ... it receives digital signals, converting them to analog.

However, it allows incoming signals which are still analog to " pass through " to your analog TV undisturbed.

There are others which do the same.

[Robin]

Is there any way to split the signal coming in from an antenna. Can I hook up one "split" to a converter box, and then take the cable coming out of the converter box and combine it with the antenna cable, so I have one connection to the tv that is both analog and digital converted to analog? Can this be done?

[Mike]

Unfortunately, the few DTV coverters that CR has tested are the only ones readily available anywhere. The rest can only be purchased online, and that has proven to be a very risky venture with some e-tailers. Has anyone been scammed by convertmy.tv?

[herb]

consumer reports needs to test all or most standard dtv converter boxes not just 3 and test all analog pass through boxes not just 1 and report on best unit and best buy consumer recamended

[herb]

consumers needs to report on most or all of standerd dtv converters and all analog pass trough dtv converters best worst consumers best buys not just 3 standred and 1 pass trough

[lax]

can you tell me the difference between DTH and DTV.

[Stu]

Consumer reports should mention that many people will not be able to receive antenna based digital TV unless they receive a strong signal.

With analog, a weak signal gives a poor picture - but you see and hear something. Digital is quite different. You either get a good signal or you get nothing. Signals can be degraded by hills, trees, buildings and distance. There will be two consequences:

1) The cable companies/satellite companies will get a gigantic boost in customer count.
2) Those people forced to chose between cable and no TV are going to be outraged, and rightfully so. But they will have no other choices.

Frankly, the entire switch to digital is a corporation promoted scam.