DENVER -- The Federal government is now offering FREE in-home assistance to U.S. households needing help installing their digital TV converter box(es).

Starting May 5, 2009, you can schedule an appointment to have a qualified technician come to your home and perform basic installation of one or two digital TV converter boxes.

The technicians are contractually prohibited from selling you anything, including converter boxes, so you'll need to purchase your converter box BEFORE scheduling an appointment.

Who is providing this service?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has set up contracts with a number of small businesses across the nation to provide this service. These contractors are paid by the FCC, so there's no cost to the consumer.

Will the technician install a new antenna for me?

No, this program does not provide installation of any equipment other than digital TV converter boxes.

What if my antenna isn't good enough to receive the new channels?

If you were getting reasonable quality TV reception before the transition, chances are pretty good that you'll be able to receive the new signals; but if the installation is unsuccessful for any technical reason (such as an inadequate antenna or defective converter box), the technician will refer you to an FCC representative who can arrange for further assistance.

Who do I contact to set up an appointment?

Contact DTV Helpers, LLC by e-mailing DTVHelpers@gmail.com or by calling 970-377-3884 or 303-805-5293. Please be sure to purchase your converter box(es) BEFORE calling for an appointment.

Does this program apply to everyone in Colorado?

No, but it does cover almost everyone in the Front Range, specifically Larimer County, Weld County, Boulder County, the City and County of Broomfield, Gilpin County, Jefferson County, Adams County, Arapahoe County, Douglas County, and the City and County of Denver.

When does this program end?

The program ends June 30, 2009 or when 2,400 homes have been helped, whichever occurs first.