What is the Digital TV transition?

The digital TV transition refers to when broadcasters will make the switch from analog to digital broadcasting. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 granted broadcasters an additional 6 megahertz of spectrum to make the transition from analog to digital TV.  After the transition, that spectrum will be returned and will be used by first responders and for other services.  This transition will be completed by June 12, 2009.

What is multicasting?

Traditional analog technology, combined with pre-existing spectrum allocation, has allowed TV stations to broadcast a single channel. However, the combination of new technology and a digital TV spectrum allocation allows broadcasters to split their signal into up to six separate channels. The broadcasting of multiple channels has become known as “multicasting.”

What are cable's current must carry obligations?

Federal law requires cable operators to carry the primary signal of broadcasters who elect to have their signal carried by cable systems in their primary coverage area. Cable's current “must carry” obligation pertains to the primary analog signal, but it will switch to the broadcasters' primary digital signal after the transition.  However, as part of an FCC agreement in September 2007, cable operators will carry both the digital and analog version of every "must-carry" broadcast television station until 2012. 

Doesn't cable already carry digital broadcast signals?

By virtue of marketplace agreements, local cable systems are voluntarily carrying hundreds of local digital broadcast signals in addition to the hundreds of primary broadcast channels that are required by federal law. Cable systems contend that marketplace negotiations – not government action – should determine which additional, or “multicast” broadcast channels are carried, which is why the industry in 2005 privately negotiated and signed a long-term digital cable carriage agreement with hundreds of local public TV stations.