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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2009
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4

TV Stations Complete Shift to Digital

Millions of American viewers could lose signal today

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(Newser) – As the US completes the shift to digital TV today, viewers in more than 2 million households will see nothing but static, according to Nielsen and broadcasters’ estimates. Those without signals are likely to be from poorer, rural, and older demographics, the Wall Street Journal reports—though Nielsen research finds that elderly people are the "most ready," TVNewsday notes.

Some 82% of those relying on antennas are ready for the switch, broadcasters say. The delay could be a boon to digital TV makers; sales have risen 32% this year, but that may be due to lower prices. The shift could also help cable providers; Comcast has created a “rapid response” team to get cable to homes fast. But broadcasters already stung by the recession could suffer if some viewers abandon TV altogether.

Community educator Ali Radheyyan shows a group of people how the switch over to digital television at the Immigration Refugee Community Organization in Portland, Ore., Thursday, June 11, 2009.
Community educator Ali Radheyyan shows a group of people how the switch over to digital television at the Immigration Refugee Community Organization in Portland, Ore., Thursday, June 11, 2009.   (AP Photo/Don Ryan)
Federal Communication Commission acting chairman Michael J. Copps speaks during a news conference about the nationwide digital television transition, June 10, 2009.
Federal Communication Commission acting chairman Michael J. Copps speaks during a news conference about the nationwide digital television transition, June 10, 2009.   (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)
In this June 5, 2009 photo, digital television converter boxes are on display at Radio Shack in Gloucester, Mass.
In this June 5, 2009 photo, digital television converter boxes are on display at Radio Shack in Gloucester, Mass.   (AP Photo/Lisa Poole)
Pallet loads of television converter boxes that enable viewers with older analog sets to see the new digital over-the-air broadcasting format are seen at a Best Buy store in Los Angeles June 5, 2009.
Pallet loads of television converter boxes that enable viewers with older analog sets to see the new digital over-the-air broadcasting format are seen at a Best Buy store in Los Angeles June 5, 2009.   (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
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4 comments
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AClotfelter
Jun 12, 09 11:33 AM CDT
"Abandon TV Altogether" Yeah right... the people they are talking about not being ready are from "poorer, rural, and older demographics". Yeah, those people are likely to abandon TV for Hulu, Youtube, etc..... NOT Reply
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IN RESPONSE:
Ioptout
Jun 12, 09 12:03 PM CDT
There are better sites that Hulu, lmao! More people should buy HD TV, hook your laptop into it (HD comes with easy access ports for your computer) and google "web streaming TV" (you can stream TV through your computer and it's easy,cheap,legal.) . If you need any links to a good site feel free to ask. I am a member to most private sites also if you need an activation code. Cheap TV's... a place called "Micro Center" 32 inch HD for $400 certain months.
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Observer
Jun 12, 09 11:46 AM CDT
Now the Mind Police will control us all easier thru Hi-Def. Reply
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rajanKazhmin
Jun 12, 09 12:27 PM CDT
Why didn't anyone warn us!!!!!???? Reply
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