According to the Commerce Department, who is overseeing the program, the government has taken requests for about 1.9 million coupons from over one million households since they were introduced on January 1st.

Carlos Gutierrez, Commerce Secretary, has stated, “The demand for coupons is strong.”

On February 17, 2009, there will be a nationwide switch from analog television to digital television, rendering all analog sets obsolete. Congress has ordered the switch in an effort to regain valuable airwaves for government use, such as police and fire departments. On the plus side for consumers, their TV picture and sound will be significantly improved.

Viewers with analog sets must simply purchase a converter box for their televisions, which usually fall between $50 and $70 price wise. Televisions connected to cable, satellite, or other paid services do not require a converter box, says The National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

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