DTV Guide To The Transition To Digital Television

May 1st marked an important milestone in the transition to digital television (DTV). All commercial stations in the top ten markets were required by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to begin digital TV broadcasts - reaching 30 percent of U.S. households. Most broadcasters in these markets have met this deadline, and many in other markets have started DTV broadcasts ahead of schedule.Television manufacturers are also doing their part to make DTV a reality. To date, more than 20 manufacturers have introduced a variety of digital products, including several models of DTV sets, set-top boxes, and DTV-capable displays. According to the Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association (CEMA), by the end of the first quarter (1999), more than 25,000 DTVs had been sold and retailers are continuing to report high consumer demand for DTV.CEMA has released the latest issue of CEMAís ""DTV Guide"", which provides the latest information on the transition. CEMA is keeping track of the stations broadcasting DTV, the products available to consumers, and the retail locations carrying DTV. CEMA is also conducting regular consumer research on DTV, addressing technical issues affecting the transition, and holding regular industry forums to facilitate a smooth transition.If you want to learn the latest on DTV, contact CEMA directly or log on to their Website at www.cemacity.org/digital.