Spectrum shifts to all-digital: What you need to know

Spectrum is upgrading to a 100-percent all digital network and that means every customer is required to have digital equipment for their TVs.

Spectrum says customers will have access to better picture quality and faster internet speeds because of the transition.

“We’re committed to upgrading the entire Spectrum footprint to a two-way, interactive digital service, giving customers a best-in-class TV, internet and voice experience,” said Tom Rutledge, Chairman and CEO of Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR).“By going all-digital across our WNY service area and removing analog signals, we free up capacity in our network for faster internet speeds, more HD and On Demand options and pave a path for future innovation.”

The upgrade in Western New York began in January. Different communities are being upgraded each week through June.

Spectrum is directly notifying customers of their specific upgrade date and the need to acquire a Spectrum digital receiver for each of their TVs.

The cable provider says the receivers will allow customers to gain access to thousands of On Demand movies and shows for every TV in their home.

Customers can receive one or more digital receivers at no cost for one, two or five years depending on their programming package.

Digital receivers can be obtained through direct shipment to a customer's home by visiting spectrum.com/DigitalNow  or by calling 1-844-278-3408. Customers can also pick up equipment at a nearby Spectrum store.