By Michael G. Williams
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Starting February 17, 2009, television broadcasters will abandon their analog channels and go completely digital. The new digital transmissions will give viewers enhanced picture and sound and enable broadcasters to offer more channels of programming.

But, according to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin J. Martin, this change also presents challenges that may disproportionately affect groups like older Americans.

“There are a lot of seniors who don’t subscribe to cable or satellite TV who still rely on over-the-air television,” Martin says. “The primary issue is making sure that they’re aware of the upcoming transition, and that they know what they’ll have to do to be able to continue to watch television.”

Effecting a smooth transition
Through the combined efforts of government agencies and the broadcasting industry, several measures to help make the transition as smooth as possible are in the works or are currently underway.

Between Jan. 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, for instance, the Department of Commerce will help ease the financial challenges of the transition by issuing up to two $40 coupons per household to assist with the purchase of the converter  required in order to receive digital transmissions with analog televisions.

And networks like Retirement Living TV, which reaches more than 26 million homes nationwide, also play an important role in raising awareness about the digital transition.

“The most important thing is to not leave behind any of those people who are getting access to television today,” Martin says. “Television plays such a critical role in community development that we have to maintain access to that information.”

To learn more about digital television and how you can prepare for the transition, visit www.dtv.gov or call 1-888-CALL-FCC. For more information about the Converter Box Coupon Program, visit www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon  or call 1-888-DTV-2009.