MicroProse MPI-500

The MicroProse MPI-500 is an N.T.I.A. Certified, ATSC digital-to-analog DTV converter box released in early 2008 in anticipation for the 2009 switch from analog to digital. It allows DVD-quality digital broadcast images to be transmitted to older analog television sets.

As well as offering 4:3 and 16:9 formats alongside a 480i resolution, the MPI-500 also includes a digital on-screen TV programming guide, similar to the ones used on digital cable TV boxes. Plus, the MPI-500 features trilingual (English/French/Spanish) operation, V-Chip parental controls & lock-outs, and closed captioning for the deaf and hearing impaired. The MicroProse MPI-500 retails for $59.95 and is eligible for a government coupon discount.