Donate converter-box coupons

Q Some time ago I heard that there were some elder-care facilities and perhaps some social service agencies such as group homes that might not get enough digital TV converter boxes to distribute to their residents, since distribution of the $40 federal coupons was limited to two per address, and many people might be residing at that single address. Is anyone taking up donations of the converter box coupons that other people don't need? We have some we'd like to donate.

JENNIFER LAVINE, WOODBURY

A It's really nice of you to offer your coupons, especially because so many households use satellite or cable and have no need of them. By pooling resources and donating unwanted coupons, everyone can work together so those who really need their TVs aren't presented with a blank screen come February.

If you have a specific group of people in mind such as nursing-home residents or a shelter, contact the organization directly to see if it needs coupons. Some organizations are cash-strapped, so if you don't mind making a small donation, buy the box with the coupon and donate the actual converter.

It is illegal to sell the coupons. But there are no prohibitions on giving them to a friend, family member or someone else who needs them.

Coupons expire 90 days after issue, so if you have some that you have been holding, donate them as soon as possible.

Recording made simple Q I have had a TiVo for a long time, and I love it, but there are a couple of other TVs on which I wouldn't mind having a DVR that is akin to a VCR: no program guide and therefore no monthly fee. What I would like is something simple, just something to have in case you want to record a show the old-fashioned way. The last time I looked for something like that, I couldn't find one.

TOM BRAKKE, EXCELSIOR

A Any DVD recorder with a hard drive will do this. A DVD recorder allows you to choose between recording to the hard drive or a blank disc. Just set it to record to the hard drive, program the timer and you are good to go. You can even burn the recorded program to a DVD later if you want to keep it forever. A good choice would be the Philips DVDR3575H, a dual recorder that includes a digital TV tuner. It has been discontinued, but refurbished units can be found at online retailers for about $220, or by checking listings at Craigslist (www.craigslist.org) and eBay (www.ebay.com).

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