BOSTON -- The conversion to digital doesn't take place until next year, but digital converter boxes are already a hot item.

NewsCenter 5's Steve Lacy reported Wednesday that starting Feb. 18, 2009, television will officially make the switch to digital.

VIDEO: Digital Converter Boxes On Sale

But what exactly do you need to do? If you currently subscribe to cable or satellite television or have a digital television set, you don't need to do anything. You're covered.

"It really is strictly for people who have rooftop and or small sets of rabbit ears," said a Best Buy employee.

If you are among the estimated 13 percent of American households that receive programming over the air via antenna, you have three options.

Start subscribing to a digital provider, such as cable or satellite television, replace your old analog TV with a digital TV, or purchase a converter box that will allow your analog television to receive a digital signal.

The government has set aside $1.5 billion to help people pay for the boxes. People can apply for up to two $40 coupons. If you get one of the coupons, you only have 90 days to use it.

Mary Pothier, of Newton, picked up two converter boxes. The boxes retail for $60 bucks a piece.

"Now is as good a time as any," she said.