FCC Performs DTV Transition Test Many Unprepared

The FCC (Federal Communication Commission) performed a "soft test" this past Thursday to help encourage consumers to take action in preparation for the digital television (DTV) transition scheduled to take place on June 12th, 2009. The test on Thursday generated a record breaking daily call volume to the FCC's national DTV help line. They received 55,000 calls on the test day last week, with the average number of daily calls being only of 15,000.

During the test, 125 of the nation's broadcast markets displayed a message on the TV of those users affected by the DTV transition with no converter box in place. The message informed the viewers to call the FCC's national DTV hotline, 1-888-CALL-FCC if they needed assistance with preparing for the termination of analog television service.

Of the calls that the FCC received, 51% wanted more information on how to relieve the governments $40 coupon vouchers for the DTV convert boxes, 15% had concerns of reception issues in their area, and 10% needed assistance with installing the digital convert boxes.

This soft test did exactly what it was supposed to do, said Acting FCC Chairman Michael Copps.  It was a wake-up call for consumers who are unprepared, alerting them to the fact that they need to take the necessary steps before the June 12 DTV transition.

A soft test simulates to a degree what unprepared viewers will experience when the DTV transition occurs.  Instead of completely cutting off the analog signal, during a soft test broadcasters interrupt the regular programming of viewers receiving analog signals to warn them the interruption indicates they are not prepared for the transition.  Such viewers other than those connected to a subscription TV service such as cable or satellite (which in some cases still utilize a broadcasters analog signal) must take immediate action to avoid a complete loss of service on June 12.  Digital broadcasts are available now and are not interrupted by soft tests. 

If you still need a coupon for a converter box, the program is underway again and fully funded for your help.

According to Neilsen estimates, nearly 3.3 million households are still not ready for the transition, as of May 10th. Over 400 broadcasters have already switched to digital TV. Are you ready for the drop-dead date?