DTV converter coupons can’t be used for boxes bundled with smart ...
DTV converter coupons can’t be used for boxes bundled with smart antennas, contrary to our earlier reading of NTIA’s rules (CD March 13 p1). Funai had asked NTIA to make such bundles eligible for coupon use, estimating they could…
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sell for less than $100 retail. But the rules say NTIA refused because the DTV statute defines coupon-eligible converter boxes (CECBs) as stand-alone devices: “The purchase of a smart antenna at the same time a consumer purchases a converter box equipped with a smart-antenna interface will ease the installation and operation of the converter box for many people. Manufacturers or retailers may wish to offer combined purchases of converter boxes with smart antenna interfaces and smart antennas at promotional prices. The CECB, however, must be presented for sale at all outlets as a standalone single unit and cannot be sold conditioned on the purchase of any other items.” NTIA sources said the rules mean coupons can’t be applied to DTV boxes shrink-wrapped with smart antennas.