ION Media Networks, along with NBC Universal, Telemundo and members of the Association of Public Television Stations, will schedule analog shut-off tests in multiple major markets, including Hartford, CT; Los Angeles, New York and Washington, D.C.
These tests are in preparation for the Feb. 17, 2009, government mandated analog shut-off and transition to digital television. Nearly all broadcasters, cable operators and satellite providers have joined in the effort.
The tests will begin in New York City, with a two-minute shutdown between 5:59 and 6:01 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28. Thirteen New York metropolitan area stations will participate.
Subsequent one-minute tests will take place in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, Dec. 2, and two 30-minute tests in Hartford on Wednesday, Dec. 3. In addition, the broadcast partners will participate in existing tests being conducted across the country, like Philadelphia, San Francisco, and other areas with varied population densities and terrains.