Getting Ready Now for the Digital Broadcast Transition
In February, hundreds of TV stations across the country completed the federally mandated digital broadcast transition (DTV) and switched to digital-only broadcasting, but nearly two-thirds of local networks (e.g. NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox and Univision) still have to make the change between now and June 12 – the final transition deadline. More than likely, most of the broadcasters in your area still have to make the switch.
While June may feel far away it’s just around the corner, and according to recent research from Nielsen, millions of consumers are still not prepared for the transition. Because stations can switch anytime between now and June 12, it’s really important for consumers to know that there’s no reason to wait to get ready. The best way to avoid surprises is to decide which DTV solution - signing up for cable or another pay TV provider, buying a new digital TV, or getting a converter box (coupons are available to help offset the cost) – works best and take action now. We’ve developed a Web site that has helpful details about DTV options, in English and Spanish, along with links to other sites including the online application for a converter box coupon and a list of questions to ask before buying a new TV. Consumers should also be aware of reports of some difficulty with reception of digital broadcast signals all the more reason to prepare now, and not wait for June 12th
We think Comcast offers the easiest solution for consumers who still aren’t ready for the transition, and we have low-cost options, including free limited basic cable for 12 months for anyone who signs up for at least one of our other products like phone or Internet service. New customers who don’t want to subscribe to additional services can get limited basic cable for just $10 a month for a full year. So, consumers shouldn’t assume that they can’t afford cable – there are very affordable options available.
Still have questions about the DTV transition? Post them here and we’ll do our best to help.
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Comments (4)
Hi Sriram - you're correct - the cable industry agreement with PBS stations provides for the option for secondary PBS stations in a market to choose whether to remain on analog distribution, or elect digital carriage, including HD and/or multicast feeds. As you pointed out, several PBS stations have elected digital carriage, and are in the process of being moved to digital - however, it is up to each PBS station to decide whether to elect digital carriage or analog carriage, and we're working closely with the PBS stations in each market on their election, as well as timeframe for the transition should they elect digital carriage (the timing will not necessarily coincide with the June 12 broadcast DTV transition). Thanks.
Matt, I think you have the two different digital transitions confused (but who can blame you?). The DTV transition is happening at a broadcaster level: over the air broadcasters are in the process of turning off their analog signals and switching solely to digital transmission which is why people need to get those digital boxes if they want to continue to watch over the air television.
If you have Comcast cable (or cable from any other provider) you're going to be fine.
At the same time Comcast is working on freeing up bandwidth by moving away from sending analog signals (which take up much more bandwidth than digital channels). We call this project 'Project Cavalry,' and once it happens in your area you'll see more HD channels added to your lineup. Sadly, I can't give you the one piece of info you want most: when Project Cavalry will get to your town.
Could you please post about how this transition will affect the number of HD channels Comcast carries? I just bought an HD set and got the Comcast DVR, and am hoping more HD channels will appear in my lineup soon. Also, will the 4:3 aspect ratio disappear in favor of 16:9 programming?
Along with this DTV transition there was a provision that allowed cable co's to designate one PBS station as primary and all other PBS's in the DMA as secondary, and which allowed them to migrate those secondary PBS's to digital if the cable co would add the HD/Digital feed.
That's happening across the state in NJ EXCEPT MY SYSTEM. What gives?