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REGION: North America
TOPIC: Media
Online NewsHour
FORUM
Posted: January 30, 2009

The Digital TV Conversion

Forum Introduction
Television; Photo by massdistraction via Flickr On Feb. 17, the nation's television broadcast system is scheduled to go all-digital, offering more enhanced images and doing away with older analog signals.
QUESTIONS
Why are we converting to a system that has a weaker transmission signal?
How is digital supposed to benefit us?
This is especially for hurricane prone areas, how can we receive digital signals when there is no power?
Will there be a mandate for stronger signals from broadcasters?
Will I get better reception with a new TV set with the built in digital connection?
How do I get the digital converter box or the coupons for one?
How can I continue to use my VCR after the big switch?
Why can't these coupons be reissued?
Are there places designated for "used" converter boxes that are no longer needed?
Do you think the effort to make the public aware of the switch has been effective?
Will this impact how PBS produces any of its programming?
Who should I contact first if I have questions about the quality of the new digital transmission of my PBS channel?
I may lose my TV signal. Maybe you could stream content over the Internet?
Michele Miyatake of Tucson, Ariz., asks:
PBS is the only television I watch. After the conversion, I won't watch any TV at all. I will miss the high quality programs PBS has. Maybe you could stream content over the Internet?
ANSWERS
Paula Kerger of PBS responds:
Paula Kerger of PBS responds:

I'm happy to hear you enjoy PBS. One of the great benefits of new technology is that a TV set is no longer required to watch television programs.

This is certainly true in PBS's case. We are working with our member stations to provide them with more streaming video on their Web sites. In the next few months, you'll be able to visit your local station's site to stream full-length episodes from most of PBS's signature series, including 'American Experience,' 'Nature,' and 'Nova.'

In addition, the Web sites for many series - including 'The NewsHour,' 'FRONTLINE' and 'Masterpiece' - offer streaming video of individual segments and full-length episodes.

Even if you don't watch PBS on TV, I hope you'll consider becoming a member of your local PBS station, if you aren't already. Increasingly, PBS stations are becoming "multi-platform content providers" to serve the changing needs of their audience, and they continue to rely upon contributions from viewers like you.


ONLINE NEWSHOUR LINKS

December 14, 2008
NewsHour High-Definition Broadcast FAQ


December 14, 2008
The NewsHour Switches to High-Definition Broadcasting Format




EXTERNAL LINKS
PBS: Get Ready for Digital TV
Federal Communications Commission


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