The government-sponsored Web site displays a countdown: 218 days, 14 hours, four minutes. Television viewers and radio listeners are bombarded with public service announcements warning them of the changes headed their way. If media consumers do not get ready, they will no longer have access to television.

Or will they?

The transition to digital TV will happen on Feb. 17, 2009. The change, marked to the minute on dtv.gov, marks the end of traditional over-the-air analog broadcast, and the beginning of a new digital broadcast wave. For most viewers to receive the new digital broadcast, they must purchase an adapter for their television. Cable and satellite service, however, will not be affected.

Around campus, students said they have heard about the conversion, but are not concerned.

Aaron Pagan, a senior in information systems management, said he has been ready for the conversion since he bought his last TV.

“I’ve had a DTV the whole time,” Pagan said. “The whole thing doesn’t really affect me.”

Pagan also said he thinks his situation is rare. Most of his friends are not worried about the conversion for a different reason.

“Pretty much all my friends have cable,” Pagan said. “They may not even know about it. I only know one other person who uses an antenna.”

Thomas Metzger lives on campus. Because all residence halls have cable access, he said he will not be affected by the transition either.

“Living in the dorm, I have free cable,” said Metzger, a junior in math. “So I have no reason to worry about it.”

Colin Atkinson is one of two hall directors at Morrill Tower. He said the change will likely affect at least some students living in the dorms and they can expect some sort of educational program to assist them with the switch.

“We’re still in summer mode right now,” Atkinson said. “I’m sure we will plan something to help as the date gets closer.”If an over-the-air viewer owns a digital television-a TV with an internal digital tuner-viewership will not be affected by the transition. Older, analog models will need a converter box.

The government estimates the price of a box to be between $40 and $70, and is offering coupons to help cover the cost. Each household is eligible for two $40 coupons. The Radio Shack on North High Street sells converter boxes for about $60. Sales representatives there said most electronic stores are sold out, but can order the boxes for customers. The process takes about four days.

Students can obtain their coupon and installation instructions by clicking on www.dtv2009.gov.

Lauren Schmoll can be reached at [email protected].