Many rural TV viewers in fringe areas will lose 'local' stations in transition to digital signals

Millions of rural Americans will no longer be able to watch some local television stations when all stations switch to digital-only programming on Feb. 17. Unlike traditional analog signals, which gradually fade with distance, "digital broadcasts either come in clear or not at all, meaning that those on the fringes of analog coverage areas will lose that reception entirely after the transition," The Associated Press reports. Also, "Many television stations will shift their broadcast footprints with the mandatory transition by changing transmitter locations, antenna patterns or power levels," Joelle Tessler writes.

The Federal Communications Commission released maps last week of the current and expected coverage areas of the 319 stations -- about 18 percent of the 1,749 full-power stations -- that are expected to lose at least 2 percent of their viewers. For a market-by-market list of those maps, click here. (The maps do not account for repeater or translator stations that rebroadcast signals to targeted areas.) In some cases, a more sensitive antenna, plus the converter box needed for all antennas, will bring in the digital signal. Rural residents may also be able to use satellite or cable service to get channels that the FCC deems local. (Read more)

The switch to digital TV is a major story in rural America, but one that many rural journalists may have difficulty covering because it's an unfamiliar subject and the sources are mostly in Washington. The National Press Foundation is sponsoring a free, 75-minute webinar on the subject on Jan. 22. Space is limited, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, click here.