KNPB Public Broadcasting Turns Off Analog Services
on Tuesday, February 17, 2009.
Local PBS affiliate KNPB will terminate analog broadcast on Channel 5 at 1:00pm, Tuesday, February 17, 2009. Viewers who subscribe to cable or satellite services will not be affected by this change.
PBS and local public television programming in both standard and high definition digital will be broadcast on digital channel 5.1. Digital channel 5.2 will continue to broadcast Create lifestyle programming, and 5.3 will now carry V-me, public TV programs in Spanish.
For the past nine years, KNPB has been implementing a long-range plan for the transition from analog to full digital broadcast as mandated by the U.S. Congress, leading up to the February 17, 2009 date as originally legislated. Over the past two years the station has been educating viewers about how to prepare for the change to digital reception.
At this point, station leaders have decided to finish the process as planned. Keeping the analog service until the extended turn-off date of June 12 would cost KNPB upwards of $15,000. Since both station and community are prepared for the change, KNPB leaders have decided to turn off the analog signal as planned on February 17.
“In this project, as in all station activities, KNPB is dedicated to practicing good stewardship, and the timing is right for this move,” said President & CEO Kliff Kuehl. “The digital transition has been a huge project that has impacted the work of all station departments. Digital broadcasting means enhanced video and audio signals and increased programming services. We’re excited to be able to serve our communities this way.”
Only viewers who receive television signals over-the-air using an antenna will be affected. However, KNPB reminds viewers to check all sets in the household, as any analog set that is not connected to cable or satellite service will need a converter box to continue to receive a signal. Converter boxes are available for purchase at many retail stores in the area; however, at this time there is a waiting list to get U.S. Government discount coupons for the boxes,
KNPB will help viewers who are having difficulty making their television sets ready for the change. Viewers may call the station at 775.784.4555 during business hours for help. Most problems with installing the boxes can be resolved within a phone call, but station technology staff will be available to make home visits if circumstances require.
The Countdown to DIGITAL |