TV Test Helps Analog Customers Gear Up For Digital Switch

Augusta, GA—If you have analog and you don’t have a converter box yet, then Wednesday night at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., you noticed the flashing screen telling you that you needed one.  Only about 200 calls came into the center tonight, which means people seem to be ready to go.

Wednesday evening was the first time all the local TV stations turned off their old analog signals at the same time.

Barry Barth, General Manager, WFXG:  “I think for the most part what we’ve experienced so far tonight is that it’s really working quite well.”

Matthew Todd was one of the 6% in Augusta who learned from the test on his screen, that he’ll need a converter box. Luckily, he’s already bought his and is excited about the new change.

Matthew Todd, ready for DTV switch:  “I got my converter box a couple of months ago because I heard about the digital switch that was upcoming and everything.”

Most people won’t notice the change.  Those who have cable or satellite will see the same TV they always have.  But for the thousands who don’t, you’ll need 2 things, an indoor or outdoor antennae and a converter box.

Curtis Girolamo, Manager, Radio Shack: “The consequences of not having a converter box after February 17th is nothing, no picture.”

Phones were ringing off the hook at this Comcast Call Center, where managers of the local TV stations tried to answer viewer questions.

Barth: “The best advice I can give people, Barclay, right now is when you get a converter box, scan it. If you have a digital television set, scan it, scan it now and don’t wait until February 17th.”

Converter boxes sell for $40-$60 at many local stores, but money for those coupons has run out so you will have to put your name on a waiting list.

If you have digital cable and you noticed the test on your TV screen, you’re fine.  It’s just that you were watching our analog channel not our digital one.

For more information on the DTV switch, click here.