Digital TV: Are the Feds Covering Their Bets?
The FCC approves rules creating more flexibility in the transition to digital.
By Swanni
On February 17, 2009, all local broadcasters must switch their analog signals to digital which means viewers will need a Digital TV, a digital converter box or a pay TV subscription to watch television.
Some lawmakers have expressed concern that many Americans, particularly older and low-income residents, will lose their TV signals due to a lack of knowledge about the switch.
Reuters reports that the FCC's new rules would permit broadcasts to make a "phased transition" to Digital TV. The agency said that some stations will be permitted to reduce or terminate their analog signals before the February 17, 2009 deadline.
But the rules will likely spark speculation that some stations will be permitted to switch to digital after the transition date if it's deemed necessary to reduce viewing interruption.
"The rules we adopt in this item attempt to provide broadcasters the flexibility they need while at the same time ensuring that any disruption to over-the-air viewers is minimized to the fullest extent possible," FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said in a statement, according to Reuters.
The transition date is likely to generate significant controversy this year with lawmakers concerned about constituents losing their signals. A few influential congressmen, such as Rep. John Dingell, D-Michigan, have already hinted that moving the transition date might be necessary.
The federal government mandated the switch to digital so it could auction off the old analog spectrum for an estimated $10 billion. Additionally, police and fire fighters want to use analog signals to communicate with each other during emergencies.
The federal government yesterday began accepting applications for $40 coupons for people to buy Digital TV converter boxes, which are expected to cost around $60-70.
FCC Commissioner Michael Copps, a Democrat, says he supported the new FCC rules, but expressed frustration that the agency is not doing more to ensure a smooth transition.
Reuters reported that Copps is discussing proposals to test the transition before the national deadline.
"I recognize there may be legal, technical, and practical challenges with planning and conducting such a test this close to the national transition date. But I believe it can be done. At least--for the sake of a successful DTV transition--let's hope it can," Copps said, according to Reuters.
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Swanni (Phillip Swann) is
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