Demand for Digital TV (US Federal Mandates)

[Cyberman]

Well the US FCC not only has taken upon itself to move military frequencys of late (Yes we can't reach the general.. well we had to use a Cell phone.. the FCC thought it was a good idea at least). The are now wanting to require people have Digital Tuners. This is old news but it seems rather pointless if people DON'T WANT IT. Makes one very suspicious doesn't it?

[Eagle]

This is a good thing. Pretty soon televison stations are going to stop broadcasting in simulcast and purely broadcast in digital. I know this because my dad works for the local ABC station and they will be switching over soon making it impossible to recieve their station on an older televison set (without some sort of adapter). Most TV stations will be doing the same. Digital is definately the way of the future so I dont see the problem here. Most TV manufacturers will start making all their TVs with digital tuners anyway, but even if it does cost more for the TVs they will enjoy the clear picture and stereo sound of high definition.

[AlphaWolf]

MFR's will end up spending barely $15 extra per unit if they include a built in digital tuner. This is a good thing, and once digital has taken over, that leaves a broad spectrum free for other uses.

[KingTom]

it's too bad 4 all the Ppull out there with an old television though

[Eagle]

They would have had to get a new one anyway. Even if the mandate doesnt pass, the TV stations will still be switching to HDTV only. It was only a matter of time. This is the new age of media, much like video cassettes are becoming obsolete and just like audio cassettes are already obsolete and barely even sold anymore, so is analog TV going the way of the 8 track. Its inevitable. Those who dont join progress will be pushed away from it and left behind.

[AlphaWolf]

Right, and I think its good to push technology. Once the switch is complete, the cost of using a cell phone will also drop massively in the US.