It’s been touted that DTV converter boxes are simple to install and use. Converter boxes that qualify for the converter box coupon programs are required to have certain features. While closed captioning and child locks make sense, other “convenience” features are just plain confusing to the generation who only had 3 channels on their TV dial.

There are many of our parents and grandparents who still struggle through technology. Onscreen program guides along with the accompanying navigation buttons on the remote can send them into a tizzy.

That’s been my experience the last couple of weeks as we ready my boyfriend’s mother for the DTV transition. She has learned channel up and channel down, but navigation buttons, “select,” “okay,” and “menu,” are not sticking in her memory.

My plan is to use green nailpolish on the buttons she should use and stickers with large print that say “CHANNEL UP” and “CHANNEL DOWN.” And Yellow nailpolish for volume control and red for the TV power on and off. I don’t know if it’ll work, but it could save me at least one trip across town.

If your loved one or neighbor is confused by the DTV remotes or boxes…here’s some tips for helping them use their converter box:

Buy a converter box with simple channel up and down, volume up and down buttons. DO NOT get cool features because it will confuse them!
(if possible) Program the remote so it can be used to power on and off the TV, use volume buttons, etc. This way it will feel more like a regular TV remote.
Color code buttons & paint red “don’t touch” symbols on buttons like Menu, info, input, that can get them into trouble. (If they have a DVD or VCR and they need to change inputs, paint DVD or VCR on or near the input button)
Make a cheat sheet like the one in the picture here.



Draw a picture and leave instructions behind. Still, expect calls.




Before you leave, have them try it several times, reading the instructions and then ask them to act like they have to teach you to do it.

Remember…No matter how much you explain, if their brain doesn’t comprehend the technology, they will have to ask you again and again. Be patient as you can even after the 500th call. We’ll all be older someday…

And if you can at all afford it…buy them a new TV with a built in tuner. They’ll understand that concept better.