TV stations test digital switch
Every Nevada television station will conduct five two-minute digital tests over a 24-hour period beginning Wednesday morning.
Nevada broadcasters will participate in a nationwide test shutoff of their analog signals to raise awareness about the upcoming digital transition.
Each test will last at least two minutes starting at 6:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and 12:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. Thursday.
By law, full-power television stations in America must stop broadcasting in analog on Feb. 17. Digital signals already are available in Las Vegas so viewers can begin watching digital television and stop watching analog signals.
Consumers who use antennas to watch TV must upgrade to digital or risk losing television reception once analog service ends.
Throughout the state, broadcasters will simulate the shutdown of their analog streams while displaying on-screen information for affected viewers.
Viewers seeing the on-screen message in Southern Nevada will be asked to call (888) 388-2545 if they have any questions, concerns or problems. Prompts are available in both English and Spanish.
Consumers can switch to digital in one of three ways: by purchasing a converter box or a new TV set with digital tuner, or by subscribing to cable, satellite or other pay TV service.
