It’s coming – in 62 days.  Are you ready?

In 62 days on 2/17/2009 all (except for a few low power or translator stations) TV stations have to end their over-the-air analog broadcasts.  A few stations have already turned off their analog signal and some are turning them off prior to 2/17 – including WKAR.  If you receive your TV signal OTA (Over-The-Air aka with an antenna) and aren’t prepared for the Digital TV transition – you won’t be able to watch TV after 2/17/09.  To receive the new digital signals you’ll need to have either a newer TV with a built in digital tuner or a converter box.  Digital TV offers better sound and picture quality – including HD channels – and can offer a wider selection of channels.

Stations throughout Michigan have or will conduct “soft-tests” this week.  A soft-test is where they send a message to let you know whether you are picking up the digital signal or not.  Stations across the country are conducting similar tests – check with your local station to see when they plan on having a test.  For information about the Michigan tests and the DTV transition in Michigan – check out http://www.michigandtv.com/

Some sites with a lot more information about the DTV transition include http://www.dtv.gov/ and https://www.dtv2009.gov/.

Even if you are ready for the DTV transition – do you know of anyone who could use your help in making sure they are ready?  This is happening nationwide and we’ll get through it without a problem if we all work together.  Feel free to ask me any questions you have about the DTV transition.