Seattle, WA – On July 24 KING 5 will pull the plug on its newscast for five seconds so that viewers can see if their television is ready for conversion to digital television.  KING 5 News consumer advocate Jesse Jones will guide viewers through the July 24 test during KING 5 News at 5:00 p.m. and on KONG 6/16 at 10:00 p.m.  For five seconds the analog signal will be turned off.  If you are able to view the station during that time, then your television is ready for DTV.  If you see snow, Jesse Jones will tell you what steps you need to take.  During the test on July 24, KING 5 will operate a phone bank manned by experts who can answer questions regarding the conversion.  Viewers can call 206.448.5555 for technical support during the test.

“This on air test is another important step we’re taking to ensure our viewers are ready for the February transition,” said Pat Costello, vice president/Station Manager.  “We’ve been airing public service announcements, weekly news stories and have a dedicated DTV section on our Web site for viewers as well.”

Beginning February of 2009, Congress has mandated that television signals must convert to all-digital broadcasting, known as Digital Television (DTV).  What will this mean for the viewer?  You need to have the capability to receive the digital signal or your television may not work. 

Why is the government mandating this conversion to DTV?  The change will free up frequencies for public safety communications (such as police, fire and emergency rescue) and provide more frequencies for advanced commercial wireless services for consumers.  Also, digital television is a more efficient transmission technology enabling television stations to provide improved picture and sound quality (including high definition television) and to offer more programming options through multiple broadcast streams. 

If you subscribe to cable television or satellite television you do not need to worry about the conversion.  Even without cable or satellite television service your television may already have a digital tuner, especially if it was purchased in the last year.  Since May 25 of 2007, all televisions sold have been required to either contain the digital tuner or the retailer must disclose at point of sale that the television sold does not contain the tuner.  If you have an older television or a television purchased without a built-in digital tuner, you will need to obtain a converter box by February 17, 2009, in order to receive the over-the-air broadcasts. 

For more information on conversion to DTV visit www.dtv.gov