I know everyone has heard about the switch in February 2009 that is a landmark in Television.  The traditional 'analog' signals are supposed to stop and only 'digital' signals will be transmitted.  Here are some helpful notes if you are still a bit confused.

-If you subscribe to Cable or one of the 'dish' services, you should be fine with the equipment you have.  But, if you receive your cable directly from the wall to your TV, you might need a cable box.  Most cable companies are upgrading everyone to 'digital cable' and a box is necessary.  You will probably need to check with your cable company if you don't have a box. 

-If you are currently using 'rabbit ears' or a large rooftop antenna, you need to be sure that your TV has a 'digital tuner'.  If your TV is over 3 years old...and it isn't HD, you probably do not have a digital tuner.  Beginning in February 2009 without a digital tuner, you will not be able to pick up a signal over the airwaves.  You must either upgrade and buy a new TV, or buy a 'converter' box.  The 'converter' box is hooked up to your existing TV and allows you to receive the digital signal.  There are lots of coupons out there as well.  Visit http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/ for coupon information.  Click the red TV for your coupon.

-You will need to purchase a digital antenna to receive the new digital signals.  Rabbit ears or rooftop antennas will not work..or will not work as well.

*Some good points about the digital signal:
-The signal is more 'crisp'.
-There are quite a bit of channels out there.
-You might actually pick up channels you never did using analog equipment.
-There is no 'snow' or static when you don't have a strong signal.
-Digital antennas come with power boosters that allow for better reception of signals that are further away.

**Some bad points about the digital signal:
-If you don't have a strong signal, there is no snow...but the picture and sound may 'drop out'.
-The antenna power booster can cost more than rabbit ears.
-The antenna power booster must be hooked up to an AC outlet...taking up a bit more power.

I do think once the dust settles, this will be a good thing for the Television industry as well as the viewers.