FCC Proposing Multiple National Soft DTV Tests May 21

The Federal Communications Commission is proposing that the 1,000-plus TV stations that have not pulled the plug on analog conduct a series of three national soft DTV transition tests May 21, targeted at local news time periods. The FCC is looking for broadcasters to simulate pulling the plug on analog during multiple time slots during the day, 7:30 am, 12:30 pm and 6:30 pm (which would be in local news time periods on stations with local news). The tests would be five minutes apiece so viewers would be able to check out the status of their TV signal in advance of the June 12 date, when those stations will be pulling the plug for real. The test would be preceded and followed by a "consistent" national DTV education message that the FCC says it would work with industry to develop. It would also coordinate the test with cable operators and other MVPDs to insure that their customers were not confused about whether or not they needed to take action. The test would include voice-overs for the blind and coordinate the test with its existing DTV call center so it would be ready for an influx of calls. The FCC is said to be looking for feedback from the industry within the next couple of days. Broadcasters are currently considering the proposal.