DTV Soft Test Coming Wednesday

Local broadcasters are preparing for a “soft test” of the digital television transition later this week.

Wednesday night at 6:30, most over-the-air television stations in Middle Tennessee will temporarily shut off their analog signals so viewers can make sure their system will make the digital leap.

Whit Adamson of the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters says the digital signal is less robust and may not reach everywhere analog is available now.

“In general terms, if you can get a cell phone signal wherever you want to put a TV, you more than likely can get a digital signal of some kind.”

Cable and satellite subscribers won’t have anything to worry about when the real transition comes February 17th. Any analog television, however, will require a converter box and a new antenna. The federal government offers $40 coupons to pay for the upgrades. Adamson recommends everyone send off for a voucher in case a family member or elderly neighbor needs one.

For those who can’t get the new signal, cable companies are offering reduced fees for limited basic service.

To receive a converter box voucher, call 1-800-DTV-2009 or go to dtv2009.gov.