NAB Applauds Broadcasters for Statewide DTV Consumer Readiness Tests

November 18, 2008

WASHINGTON, DC — Yesterday, television stations across Pennsylvania, Colorado, Maine and North Carolina conducted the largest analog shut-off tests to date aimed at helping viewers prepare for the rapidly approaching transition to digital television (DTV) on February 17, 2009. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) applauds America's broadcasters for implementing this important consumer education tool within top markets and across states nationwide.

In a given market, executing these tests requires careful coordination among television stations, cable and satellite providers and state broadcast associations. Nearly 150 stations in 49 markets have already conducted such tests, which help viewers determine whether their TV sets need to be upgraded to receive digital signals. NAB and broadcasters are leading a campaign valued at more than $1 billion to educate America about the transition.