I can't remember when the first date the FCC set was...I think it may have been 1999...either way...it's been pushed back several times now...with the end transition date now being December 31, 2006.
I was actually watching C-Span once when the FCC hearing where taking place (yes...I watch C-Span and C-Span2)
They were talking about the DTV transition.
It's true that right now the FCC has said that the 2006 date may be pushed back if DTV sets and broadcasts are not available to 85% of homes are able to watch DTV broadcasts. Further, the older set will still be able to be used in the future until analog broadcasts cease. Anyone thinking Loran navigation here? By the way...Loran is still working! Once the analog broadcasts cease...you will still be able to buy a set top converter to view current broadcasts on your beautiful vintage furniture grade television.
I've currently got an HD Tv running with HD service provided via my local cable company (for an increase of only $3.00 a month). Let me tell you...it is really something to watch. The clarity...the colors...the depth in the picture...it's really like nothing I've ever seen before. I can't wait till we get more channels moving to HDTv.
But here's where it gets interesting. That December 31, 2006 transition date. As far as I know...that has nothing to do with High definition broadcasts. I wish it did...but it doesn't
. What the transition will be...is for DTV. Digital broadcasts to your television. These digital broadcasts will have a cleaner picture than analog and offer people the ability to receive dolby digital surround. Added on to this...in the same space it would take a broadcaster to send the information for one analog program...the broadcaster can now (thru DTV) choose to send a high definition single or multiple DTV programs at the same time. Yep, it says nothing about making high definition mandatory.
well...that's about all I have
here's a link to the FCC site talking about the DTV transition.
take care>>>>>>>