DTV Transition Confusing?

In an effort to address some issues raised by viewers recently regarding the conversion of the nation’s full power stations from analog to digital we present some recent questions and answers to them.

“I watch WAGM on Channel 11 in Madawaska and friends watch it on other translator channels further up the Valley, do I need to get a converter?”

The answer is yes, but not right now. The translator stations for WAGM will not be converted to digital until some time in 2011. Coincidently the Canadian full power stations will convert to digital in 2011 also. For right now you should be able to receive WAGM on the same translator station using the same equipment you have used for years.

“I have heard that WAGM’s digital signal is lower power than the current analog Channel 8 signal, how will that effect my reception?”

Digital and analog power levels do not equate, WAGM’s analog visual output level is 120,000 watts, WAGM’s digital output level is 3500 watts. WAGM’s digital signal covers exactly the same geographical area as the analog signal does. As far as rated power output it is apples to oranges, but as far as coverage area it is apples to apples. The ability to use reduced power levels to achieve the same coverage area is one of the reasons for the digital conversion.

“Will I need a new antenna for digital television?”

The answer is that you might. Digital television produces beautiful picture and stunning sound and it does so right out to the edge of its’ signal area. However, when the signal level falls below a certain point, i.e. when the television receiver it too far away from the transmitter site on Mars Hill Mountain, then the signal will cut off completely. The older analog signals degraded gradually over distance, but may still be “watchable”, digital is either all there or not there at all. The result is that for best reception you will definitely want an outside antenna capable of both UHF and VHF reception and probably an inexpensive signal booster. For specifics on what antenna to use visit: www.antennaweb.org.

More questions and answers will be posted in future editions.