CEA Expresses Support For DTV Cable Agreement

Letter Sent To FCC Endorses Compatibility Proposal

20-Dec-02

The Consumer Electronics Association sent the following letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) expressing the association's support for the digital television (DTV) cable compatibility agreement announced earlier today:Dear Chairman Powell,The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) supports and endorses the digital television (DTV) cable compatibility agreement filed today with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As signed by leading digital television manufacturers and major cable system operators, this historic agreement will allow all Americans to receive high-definition television (HDTV) over cable on a national basis without a set-top box.Our joint industry agreement enabling plug-and-play DTV over cable is a major victory for American consumers, and will significantly speed up the DTV transition and the return of broadcasters' analog spectrum. In addition, the cable and consumer electronics industries have committed to begin working immediately on standards for future interactive digital cable services, paving the way for next-generation DTV cable products.CEA commends the dedication shown by all participants and the National Cable and Telecommunications Association (NCTA) in bringing this agreement to conclusion. We greatly appreciate the encouragement of you and your fellow Commissioners on this issue, along with your commitment to accelerate and successfully conclude the DTV transition. We urge the Commission to expeditiously adopt the industry recommendations as filed.Sincerely,Gary ShapiroPresident and CEO