Digital TV converter boxes flying off the shelves

by Dustin Grove (grove@wsbt.com)

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Many local stores are having a problem keeping digital TV converter boxes in stock because of high demand

Many local stores are having a problem keeping digital TV converter boxes in stock because of high demand. (WSBT photo)

By Tiffany Griffin

Story Created: May 20, 2008 at 10:26 AM EST

Story Updated: May 23, 2008 at 3:48 PM EST

SOUTH BEND — By now you've probably seen the commercials for digital TV. It will be the only way to see television next February — the federal government is forcing stations to turn off the analog signal.

So if you watch us on an antenna, you'll have to get a converter box. And the government is helping with a $40 coupon.

Converter boxes are being advertised at just about any electronics store. But lately, we found there's just one small problem — stores are having a tough time keeping them on the shelves.

Some workers say it’s because of all the promotion TV stations have been doing about the digital transition over the last few months.

We found the shelf empty at the Grape Road Meijer store in Mishawaka Tuesday. Employees expected to have a shipment in within the next week.

Down the street at Wal-Mart, they were in stock, still sitting on a pallet, but going fast. They were also available at Circuit City and Best Buy.

“They’re going very quick,” said Best Buy employee Will Smith. “I would say [we’re selling] about 40 a day or so.”

Steve Ackerman was relieved to find one.

“The Best Buy up in Benton Harbor said they were going to get some but by the time I got back there they didn’t have any more so I knew they were down here [at the Mishawaka Best Buy] and came to get one … before they ran out,” he said.

One electronics store worker said there seem to be more coupons than converter boxes being made. But they're hopeful, as February 2009 approaches, that they'll see bigger shipments more often.

Meanwhile, customers trying to buy now are left to search.

If you have a new HD television or if you have satellite or cable, you do not need a converter box; you only need one if you're watching with an antenna.

For more information, click on Ready, Set, Know: Making the switch to digital television

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