Word is out today that a Senate bill on the DTV delay could be voted on next week. There’s an interesting twist, however. It would allow stations to cease analog transmission before the proposed June 12th deadline on a voluntary basis. Click here to see the whole story.

What do you think? Please leave your comments here.

Well, the second analog shutdown soft test came and went. How did you do?

We had a number of volunteers from WIVB and WNLO at the call center and, judging by the number of calls compared to December’s test, I think more Wester New Yorkers are prepared for the upcoming transition. We had roughly half the calls that we had in December and I think that’s a good sign.

It was a pleasure to talk to all the viewers who called and I hope we reassured them that it’s easy to prepare for the digital future of television.

What were your experiences? Please comment here.

-dm

Just a reminder to all that the second market-wide analog shutdown soft test will take place on Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 7:58PM. We will again have a phone bank set up for your questions afterward.

Once again, rest assured that if you have a cable, FIOS or satellite subscription, any TV’s connected to these services will not need upgrades. Likewise, if you have a newer TV with an ATSC (digital) tuner you need not worry. Only those with older sets who receive our local channels directly off-air with an antenna will need to take further action if they see the message saying they are not ready.

-dm

We’re looking for opinions here on the move by Consumers Union and others seeking to delay the analog shutdown date. Is it too late now? Would it help?

Please leave your comments here.

-dm