Where can I buy a replacement remote controls for my converter box? Converter Box Remote Controls.

Microsoft has unveiled some details on the upgrade and retail pricing of Windows 7, the new version of Windows that’s due for release this October.

If you’re planning to buy a computer with Vista soon, there’s a good chance the upgrade program will cover you: it’s in effect from June 26, 2009 through January 31, 2010. But pricing and options depend on when you order a new PC (or a retail copy of Windows 7) and, in the case of a new computer, the brand and model.

Bottom line: If you’re buying a new computer with Vista, check directly with the manufacturer to find out if they support the upgrade program and what the upgrade to Windows 7 will cost you.

Microsoft has posted Windows 7 retail pricing on their Windows Blog.

The site estimates these retail prices:

Upgrade:

• Windows 7 Home Premium: $119.99
• Windows 7 Professional: $199.99
• Windows 7 Ultimate: $219.99

Full version:

• Windows 7 Home Premium: $199.99
• Windows 7 Professional: $299.99
• Windows 7 Ultimate: $319.99

As details become clearer we’ll post them on this blog. —Jeff Fox

Coupon Availability and Replacement Coupons.

Eligible households may continue to apply or re-apply for TV converter box coupons. Applications for coupons are accepted online, by phone at 1-888-388-2009 (1-888-DTV-2009), by mail and by fax. Mailed applications must be post-marked no later than July 31, 2009. Online, phone and fax applications must be submitted by 12 midnight Eastern Time.

It typically takes nine business days to process and mail coupons. If you have applied for coupons, but not yet received them, you may check the status of their by selecting Check Your Application Status.

Appeals for Denied Coupon Applications.

If you have applied for coupons through the Web site and the application is denied, there is a link within the denial message to appeal. Appealing via the Web site is the quickest way for the Coupon Program to process and respond to appeals. You may also appeal by clicking here. If you wish to provide additional detail beyond the space provided, they may submit their appeal in writing or by e-mail.

Coupons Expiration Date and Online and Phone TV Converter Box Ordering Options.

Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. The expiration date is printed on the coupon. Even though the last day to apply for coupons is July 31, 2009, consumers can use their coupons at participating retailers until they expire. Converter boxes can be purchased at most national retail stores and some local retailers.
A list of retailers will be included in the envelope containing the coupon. You should call ahead to area retail stores to confirm availability of coupon-eligible converter boxes on the day they plan to shop. To find a participating retailer in your area, go to www.DTV2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx. Coupon-eligible converter boxes also may be purchased online or by telephone and shipped directly to your home.

“Double Re-scan” Converter Boxes and Digital TVs

As TV stations continue making changes to their signals, the FCC is encouraging converter box and digital TV users who still may be having trouble receiving a digital channel to “double re-scan,” which means clearing out the converter box or TV’s memory by unplugging the antenna, re-scanning the device without the antenna attached in order to clear out the memory, unplugging the box or digital TV, reconnecting the antenna to the device and plugging the unit back in, and then re-scanning. Note that “Double .Re-Scanning” is a more thorough process than simple “Scanning or Re-scanning.”

Double-Check and Relocate Antennas.

To receive the most channels, it is important for consumers to have a “VHF/UHF” antenna and to make sure they place it in a location that allows for the best reception. Click here to read the full FCC consumer advisory.

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[ Photo courtesy of Mykl Roventine ]

Evidently the DTV transition on June 12 didn’t disrupt life as we know it, judging by most reports we’ve seen. But two weeks into it, we’re still hearing from consumers who are having problems getting some of the digital channels available in their market.
Here’s some advice from the FCC, which has been tracking problems presented to their experts at support centers or via the toll-free help line (1-888-CALL-FCC), which is still in operation.

Many stations changed their frequency on June 12, but the old frequency might still be stored in the memory of your digital converter box or digital TV—even if you rescanned after the transition. To clear the memory, you need to run a “double rescan,” in effect, rebooting the system to wipe the slate clean.

The problem could also lie with your antenna. You might need to relocate or adjust the one you have or get a different type. As the FCC points out, one of the most popular spots for indoor antennas–on top of the TV– may not be the best spot. A location higher up or near a window, and away from electronic equipment, may provide better reception. You’ll find many useful pointers in the FCC’s factsheets on antennas and reception. —Eileen McCooey