Yes, this switch to digital TV is a hassle, but it's not something TV stations are doing on a whim.
It's federally mandated by the FCC.
It leaves the airwaves available for additional channels, interactive data services and wireless companies, and the federal government can use the frequencies to improve communication systems for fire and police departments.
"We were forced to do this, and I'm sure the broadcasters wanted it, but we're being forced by the FCC, we didn't request to do this," says NBC 15 Chief Engineer Tim Reid. "We've spent just here at the station about four million dollars to prepare for this, so we're bearing some of the burden also."
But Tim thinks once people make the initial adjustment, they'll love TV in this new digital age.
"I think so," says Reid. "You will have more options, you have nine local stations, but with the advent of digital television, you'll have 21 channels right now and it's only going to grow once the technology gets better and better and the compression rate gets better. You'll have more channels on each TV station. The initial hurdle is a big one, but in the long run, yes, a much more pleasant experience watching TV and it's all free."
