For those that rely on “free” TV, the clock is ticking. Everywhere you look, there’s (hopefully) info to help you through the DTV transition.

Apparently, some are already ready for the switch. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Broadcasters, 64 percent of those using over-the-air TV are ready for the February 17, 2009 switch date.

Of those that hadn’t made a move, 35 percent planned to use the government-issued $40 converter box coupon; 45 percent planned to buy a TV with a digital tuner.

“The initial phase of the DTV education campaign is clearly making an impact in creating awareness,” said Seth Geiger, president of Smith-Geiger LLC, which conducted the poll for the NAB.

Do you think they are doing enough? I can’t tell you how many people have contacted me about the converter coupon fiasco. MediaWeek says that the government is worried about those viewers as well, and voted this week to spend funds to further educate the public. Smaller TV stations will also get some monetary help, so they can upgrade to digital equipment.

About 5,535 broadcast-only homes were contacted between March 29 and May 13 for the survey.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.