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The transition to digital television is ready for a test run, and it will happen in North Carolina, the home state of FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
Martin will announce today that a test in Wilmington will begin on Sept. 8. That's five months before the mandated switchover date - when all broadcasters must have digital technology - of Feb. 17, 2009. Wilmington is the nation's 135th largest TV market (so says Nielsen Media Research). FCC Commissioner Michael Copps has said he's been looking for a small market with a few commercial stations (Wilmington has four) as a test site in order to see what bugs may exist before the digital switch is flipped nationwide. Copps on Wednesday said he hoped other markets also would be willing to test the technology ahead of the mandated launch date. After Feb. 17, 2009, TV viewers using analog sets that rely on antennas for their signal will need a converter box to continue receiving a viewable signal. Those folks who don't already have a digital set can get a $40 coupon from the government to apply toward the cost of the box. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration, in charge of the coupons, says some 1 million already have been redeemed. |
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Darrell Proctor is a technology expert, experienced in all manner of software, hardware, and consumer electronics. He was formerly the Technology Editor for the Rocky Mountain News, and his reviews of consumer electronics have been recognized by the Consumer Electronics Association and other groups He's been a go-to guy for many companies when they prepare to launch new technologies and now he offers you his expertise. Questions for Darrell? Drop him a line at techexaminer@gmail.com.
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