TELEVISION, as we know it, has been evolving. Ready or not, a year from now households across the country are expected to achieve digital equality. In the biggest advancement since color television, the digital age of American broadcasting will signal an end to the analog transmissions currently lighting up most sets. Unfortunately, the majority of Americans still has no idea how the shift to digital television will impact them.
On Feb. 17, 2009, every American television station is mandated by federal law to complete the switch to digital transmission. The most significant result will be the immediate obsolescence of an estimated 70 million of analog television sets, unless the viewing public prepares for the big switch. The broadcast industry agrees that it will be well worth the effort. Digital TV will transform the television viewing experience by providing clearer pictures and better sound quality.
Those already watching in high definition can attest to the superior quality. Digital television also provides for the possibility of multiple channels, improved program guides and interactive capabilities. Capitol Hill has identified digital TV as the future of television; its mandate for change guarantees that the American viewer would not be left behind.
Most Americans, however, are unaware of the pending transition. According to a recent survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, 36 percent of Americans have not seen, read, or heard anything about the digitial television transition. Among those with some awareness, few could say when the transition would occur. Confusion reigns.
Consider the uproar next February when millions of television sets pop to "snow" at the mandated hour. Nearly 99 percent of US households own at least one set, and about 70 percent are tuned to television on any given evening. Without accurate information about the digital TV transition, chaos is probable.
Even consumers who have heard the call to action are confused by the wealth of misinformation in the market.
How many of us have begged answers to simple questions? Do you have to buy an HD television set? No. Can a digital TV signal be viewed on an analog set? Yes, it can be done.
Fortunately, Massachusetts has a high level of "carrier" penetration. In other words, residents with analog sets already connected to cable, fiber, or satellite will receive digital programming after Feb. 17, 2009. These services will allow viewers to receive digital signals on analog televisions as long as all the sets in the household are connected to the service.
No additional equipment is required for consumers who subscribe to cable, satellite, or a telephone company provider. But without a digital-ready monitor, the audience will not reap the benefits of crystal clear pictures or CD quality sound. The superior digital transmission will be down-converted to an analog signal.
Viewers who watch analog sets with a rooftop antenna or "rabbit ears" will need a DTV converter box to receive any television signal after Feb. 17, 2009. The elderly and the disadvantaged, who are among the hardest to reach, tend to fall into this group. The most cost-effective option for consumers is a converter box, which is an electronic device that plugs into existing analog sets. These boxes are available at selected area retailers. To help cover the cost, the federal government will provide two $40 coupons to each eligible household.
Another option is to purchase a new television set with a built-in digital tuner. Viewers will still need DTV antennas to provide quality reception of over-the-air local television signals. Most sets, larger than 27 inches and sold in the last few years, will probably have a digital tuner. Consumers who opt for a DTV antenna can receive local stations without having to pay for cable, satellite or phone video services. Of course, if pay or other networks are desired, a carrier must be used.
Early action will allow viewers to choose the option that best suits their personal situation and enjoy quality programming without risk of interruption.
On Digital Day, the revolution will be televised. Do not get left out - take the steps now to enjoy the next generation of television viewing.
Bill Fine is president and general manager of WCVB-TV/DT Channel 5.
