In part one of his series, WDBO's Joe Ruble examines why - and what's going to happen to make sure you "Get The Picture."

February 17, 2009 -- the day the TV's stopped working.

Well, they'll still be working, but they won't be receiving any signal unless they are ready for the digital age.

"On the 17th of February, we'll turn analog off," said John Demshock, who runs the engineering department at channels 9 and 27.

"I think it started probably 15 years ago or more, with the realization that in order to remain competitive, broadcasters will would have to become, at some point, digital."

TV's move to digital means a better picture for you.

"Those broadcasts in many cases, because they're effectively uncompressed digital, when you watch that feed it can look even better than even the best of the cable or satellite signals."

Bill Phillips has been selling electronics for years and is high on DTV.

"Even when its not a high definition show, you get a better picture and better sound. That's the first big advantage, the second big advantage is variety," he adds.

Broadcasters are taking advantage of the change by offering subchannels. Right now, viewers can see live weather radar, retro TV shows and even Latin music videos on the subchannels.

It's not big thing if you get your TV through cable or satellite - they will make the adjustment for you. But if you rely on an antenna, you may need a new one.

"You need an antenna that picks up UHF. Fortunately, for people who live in the Orlando area, that antenna does not have to be some huge thing," according to Phillips.

Phillips said old tv's will also need a special device.

"You would have to get an external decoder box that is a digial tuner and the appropriate antenna."

"You would hook those things up and then could tune in all of the local digital broadcasts. Right now I can get 30 or 35 digital channels," he said.

The government is supplementing the cost of those converters. Coupons for $40 are available by applying online. Click here for coupon.

The TV's will abandon VHF for UHF next year and those old frequencies will be sold off by the government, which could make billions of dollars.

• Part II: Do You Need A New TV?
  • What You Need To Know: Digital TV Basics
  • Confused? Frequently Asked Questions