TV broadcasters to test analog shutoff on May 21st
If you have an analog TV and get over-the-air signals using an antenna, don’t panic if you can’t find your favorite stations for a brief time next Thursday—that’s when the FCC has asked broadcasters to simulate the coming analog shut-off on June 12.
Per the FCC's request, on May 21st many broadcasters will temporarily suspend analog programming and instead air a public-service message about the digital conversion, telling viewers that if they’re seeing the message it means they're not prepared to receive a digital signal and will lose reception on June 12 if they don’t take action. The FCC has asked broadcasters to run the five-minute tests three times during the day: at 7:25 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and again at 6:25 p.m. While many will adhere to those times and durations, others have asked for some flexibility as to the exact time and length of the messages. The FCC will beef up its 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) call center during the period to assist those with questions.
There are still more than 900 full-power stations that haven't yet jumped to all-digital broadcasts. While the FCC believes that most of these stations will participate in the tests, they're voluntary so some stations may not comply. Also, the tests don't apply to stations that have already made the switch to all-digital broadcasts.
If you'd like more information, call the FCC help line at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322), or visit the DTV website for further assistance. —James K. Willcox
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