Out of 1,796 full power television stations, 379 are or will be digital only by 2/17/09; and in total, 61% of all stations would be able to go all-digital safely, even if they made the switch today – because they are already operating on their assigned permanent digital home. Further, the vast majority of the remainder would be able to do so one way or another up until the full transition date.
Copps provided the stats in answer to questions from key House Energy and Commerce Committee minority leaders Joe Barton (R-TX) and Cliff Stearns (R-FL). He also provided a complete list detailing the DTV status of all full power television stations, available below as a pdf file.
Copps also made a pitch for more time, writing, “As I have said, I believe a short delay in the transition date will give us an opportunity – with adequate resources – to significantly improve the outcome to consumers.” He also expressed gratitude for his efforts to increase communications and transparency at the Commission and offered to discuss that matter further.
RBR/TVBR observation: This leaves open the possibility that the DTV transition will happen more or less on time whether the so-called OTA (over-the-air) households are ready or not. What happens if you delay a DTV party but everyone comes at the original time anyway?
