ION, NBC Stations To Spearhead Analog Shut-Off Tests

In response to a request made by Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, ION Media Networks, NBC Universal, Telemundo, and members of the Association of Public Television Stations, will spearhead analog shut-off tests in markets across the country, ION said Tuesday. The so-called ASO tests — planned as temporary interruptions of the over the air signals — will take place in multiple major markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. and Hartford, Conn. The tests are in preparation for the Feb. 17 government mandated analog shut-off and transition to digital television. The ASO tests, which are designed to ensure consumer DTV preparedness and a smooth transition to DTV, will begin in New York City, with a two-minute shutdown between 5:59 p.m. and 6:01 p.m. Oct. 28.