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Federal Communications Commission. 1-888-CALL-FCC 1-888-TELL-FCC (tty) E-mail: dtvinfo@fcc.gov. The Digital Television Transition. DTV Transition Update. FCC Goals Walk-In Centers & in-home assistance to those who need it Better more coordinated call centers
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Federal Communications Commission 1-888-CALL-FCC 1-888-TELL-FCC (tty) E-mail: dtvinfo@fcc.gov The Digital Television Transition
DTV Transition Update • FCC Goals • Walk-In Centers & in-home assistance to those who need it • Better more coordinated call centers • Awareness of potential coverage reception issues • More time to better focus efforts on consumer outreach and support to our most vulnerable citizens • Low income • Elderly • Disabled • Non-English speakers • Tribal
DTV Broadcast Update • 629 stations transitioned on or before February 17, 2009 • 160 have elected to transition between February 18, 2009 and June 12, 2009 • 45.3% of stations will be providing digital-only service prior to the June 12, 2009 deadline • Bulk of stations that have already transitioned are in mid-sized and smaller markets
Lessons Learned • Better consumer education – The FCC recently revised our consumer education requirements to reflect the signal coverage, antenna and re-scanning problems that consumers had had to date. Starting April 1, stations must notify viewers about signal loss areas, the use of antennas, and the importance of re-scanning converter boxes and digital TVs. • Better targeted outreach – While the FCC will provide support to all markets, we have worked with NTIA to develop a list of 49 “hot spots” based on factors such as the number of over-the-air households, demographics, coupon request and redemption rates, signal coverage problems, as well as our hands-on field experience.
Lessons Learned • Stronger Field Presence – the Commission is committed to having staff on the ground to assist with the transition and in establishing walk-in help centers to help consumers get answers to their questions, apply for converter box coupons, learn how to install their boxes and receive advice on antenna and reception issues. • Building Partnership – the Commission recently partnered with AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (“AmeriCorps NCCC”) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (“IAFC”) to provide outreach and in-home installation assistance to at-risk populations in target markets across the country.
Lessons Learned • Contracts – the Commission recently closed solicitations for contracts to provide basic installation services, expert installations services, walk-in centers, call centers and media support. • As these contracts are awarded information will be available on the dtv.gov website.
Lessons Learned • Better Tools - The Federal Communications Commission has teamed up with Consumers Union to distribute a consumer guide that will help viewers prepare for the digital television transition. In addition, the FCC has upgraded its web site, www.dtv.gov, to give consumers powerful tools capable of providing help and information specific to their communities. • Consumers Union Publication - The 15-page booklet, produced by CU’s Consumer Reports magazine, provides clear instructions, smart tips, and colorful diagrams to help consumers get ready to make the transition.
Lessons Learned • Dtv.gov website - The new dtv.gov home page is a one-stop shop for all things DTV. By entering their zip codes in a search box, consumers can locate nearby support centers, get channel and contact information for local stations, find DTV events near them, and determine which stations have made the transition to all-digital broadcasting. Entering a home address on the DTV reception map page shows the stations a consumer should be able to receive when the transition is complete. This information can be especially useful in choosing and installing an antenna.
Field Plan • Multi Phase Plan • Setting up targeted outreach and media events • Demonstrating converter box set-up • Assisting consumers in signing up for coupons • Ensuring that converter box antenna supply is adequate • Partnering with local broadcasters • Working with local government and community organizations • Coordinating all DTV efforts in each DMA • LCCR, N4A • Working with broadcasters and communities on June 12th • Dealing with issues that arise following June 12th
For More Information • 1. Visit www.dtv.gov • Frequently Asked Questions • Fact Sheets • Converter Box Set-Up Guides • Troubleshooting Guide • Converter Box Features Guide • DTV Outreach Toolkit • Speakers Bureau • Other Resources • 2. Call Toll Free • 1-888-CALL-FCC (Voice) • 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY) • 3. E-mail dtvinfo@fcc.gov.