KET - KET offers programs to assist in digital transition

KET offers programs to assist in digital transition

For Release: 2008-12-22 11:47:00

The television industry is approaching a historic moment; on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2009, the nation’s TV broadcasters will complete their transition to an all-digital format. Digital television (DTV) is a newer, more efficient, broadcast technology that offers viewers dramatically clearer pictures and better sound than the traditional analog system.

KET offers two programs to help viewers make their final preparations — with a special emphasis on the need for adequate antennas — beginning with Get Ready for Digital TV, airing Thursday, Jan. 8 at 9/8 p.m. CT on KET1. In this special program, Norm Abram and Kevin O’Connor of This Old House offer guidance and tips on how to prepare for the switch to digital television before the analog shutoff while Maria Hinojosa of Now on PBS shares DTV news from the field.

Then, viewers can call with their questions during Digital TV Call-In, airing live Thursday, Jan. 8 at 9:30/8:30 p.m. CT on KET1.

During the call-in, experts, including Mike Clark, KET’s former director of technology planning, and KET spokesman Tim Bischoff, will answer questions posed by viewers. According to producer Tom Bickel, they will emphasize the perils of relying on an insufficient antenna come February.

“We recommend you test your KET signal now, before the analog shut-off, to make sure you’re receiving a clear signal,” he said. “Those who receive KET over the air can take advantage of KET’s dual signal broadcast now by finding the best possible analog signal and seeing if their sets’ built-in digital tuners or digital converter boxes can pick up the digital signal.”

The program rebroadcasts Thursday, January 22 at 10:30/9:30 p.m. CT and Monday, January 26 at 9:30/8:30 p.m. CT on KET2.

Now and after the broadcasts of these programs, viewers who have any questions about their signal may call KET’s digital helpline at 1-866-291-8189. Information is also available on KET’s web site at ket.org/dtv.

Digital TV Call-In is produced by KET. More information about KET programming and education services, as well as how to support KET, can be found at www.ket.org.

Contact: Ellen Soileau

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