Comcast Corp. is alerting viewers in Spokane who still receive analog, non-digital TV signals for limited basic cable that they need new boxes to watch those programs in digital format.

Getting the digital equipment costs nothing, said Comcast spokesman Walt Neary, provided a customer doesn't need more than three digital receivers.

In  2009 Comcast moved its standard cable lineup -- channels 30 to 70 -- to the digital format.

The last step, taking place near the first of April, is the conversion of analog channels 2-30, 72-79 and 95-99.

Neary estimated the Spokane area has roughly 2,500 homes or customers who still use receive limited basic in analog format.

Like all other major cable companies, Comcast is making the change so that it can use bandwidth for more channels and more services for customers.

Here's the Comcast summary of the key step:

To continue receiving limited basic channels, customers need a digital cable box or a Digital Transport Adapter.  Similar to Comcast’s offer when we upgraded the expanded basic service to digital, we’re providing up to three Digital Transport Adapters, small cable equipment we call DTAs, for our Limited Basic customers at no charge.

To get the equipment, customers can call 877-634-4434 or log on to www.comcast.com/digitalnow.

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