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Nation Transitions to Digital Television This Friday
by Amanda M. Straub
Although more than one-third of the country’s full-powered broadcast stations have already transitioned to broadcasting in digital, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken a number of precautions to ensure that all households affected will have a smooth transition.
In the weeks prior to the June 12 transition, the FCC has created a call center (1-888-CALL-FCC) with 4,000 agents to answer consumer questions and established 400 walk-in centers and 12,000 DTV help clinics around the country to offer hands-on assistance for operating converter boxes. Additionally, the FCC’s digital television website (www.dtv.gov) has a schedule of DTV education events and information on the availability of in-home installation services.
The FCC is also working with local volunteers and firefighters in communities to offer free, in-home assistance for installing converter boxes and adjusting antennas.
The FCC has made a concerted effort to assist communities with low-income individuals, minorities, non-English speaking consumers, senior citizens, consumers with disabilities and individuals living in rural areas or tribal lands.
“The switch to DTV offers benefits to consumers and society, but we must be vigilant to make sure all Americans are prepared for the transition,” said Acting FCC Chairman Michael Copps in an FCC statement. “Television is a primary source for news, weather and public safety information for many Americans so the FCC is working overtime to reach those remaining viewers who still have not taken the necessary action to continue to receive television programming after June 12.”
On May 21, the FCC conducted a nationwide “soft test” during which more than 125 broadcasters interrupted regular programming for viewers still using analog signals. The interruption simulated what unprepared viewers will experience when the transition actually occurs. Unprepared viewers were prompted to contact the FCC call center or visit the DTV website for help with their transition.
The FCC reported the “soft test” prompted a record 55,000 inquiries to the call center. Most consumers had concerns regarding reception issues, installation of their digital converter boxes and sought information about the converter box coupon program.
As of May 24, Nielsen Media Research reported that 3.1 million television households — or 2.7 percent — are still unprepared for the transition.
Tips for a Smooth DTV Transition
There are a number of things local officials can do to help constituents transition to digital television.
• Consider setting up a local hotline where constituents can call to get advice on how to transition.
• Work with local fire departments or volunteer organizations to help install converter boxes.
• Promote local DTV support centers to residents. Find what’s available in specific communities by visiting www.dtv.gov/dtv_resources.htm.
• Urge constituents to apply for converter box coupons. Households can receive coupons until July 31. The new expiration date for coupons is September 15.
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