Announced to the public over a year ago, most of you are probably already aware of that mysterious “switch to digital cable” that everyone’s been talking about, but few understand.

So if everyone else is worried about it, should you be?

Well, the odds are you won’t be affected. According to DTVAnswers.com, the only people who need to be concerned with the switch are those who “use an antenna to watch TV on a set that has an analog tuner and don’t subscribe to cable, satellite or other pay TV services.”

So if you already are paying for cable, you’re in the clear.

Of course, if you don’t, it’s an easy fix. For the few who need to make the switch, there are three options that will let you avoid those dreaded screens of snow and static on February 17 June 12:

• Get a Digital TV converter box
• Buy a TV with a built-in digital tuner
• Subscribe to a local cable or satellite provider

For more info about the switch to digital and other tips about television services, feel free to explore the following links:

• Digital TV Answers - includes a nifty countdown timer along with other useful facts about the switch to digital cable.
• MSNBC coverage on the voluntary decision of cable companies to delay the switch to help avoid confusion.
• CNET FAQ on the switch.
• HDTVNew.com provides the latest news and even a buyer’s guide for High Definition TVs.
• NY Times explains the difference between digital cable and hi-def cable.
• PHTG helps to decide whether satellite or cable is the best option.
• UPDATE: News about the Senate Bill delaying the switch