The primary goal of the new DTV system is to reproduce the coverage areas currently in place for Ohio, and in addition, provide all of the advantages of a digital television service. These advantages include the potential for multiple program streams originating from one station, and the availability of high definition television from all public TV outlets. A group representing all U.S. public broadcasters announced a digital transition strategy on October 7 designed to ensure universal access to an abundance of new educational services and programs. The strategy was developed by the Digital Broadcasting Strategic Planning Steering Committee, a group of industry leaders representing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the Public Broadcasting Service, America's Public Television Stations, National Public Radio and public broadcasters from the local level. Public television stations must begin digital broadcasting by 2003 or risk losing their channel assignments.
Digital technology frees public broadcasters from the limitations imposed by a single analog signal.
Many stations must currently choose among broadcasting preschool programs, adult learning courses, national series, local productions, cultural programming or public affairs. Digital technology also enables transmission in a high-definition format, which public broadcasters have committed to as part of their plan. The final links in providing Ohio with state-wide coverage of public radio are underway with work proceeding at three new repeater stations. In Marion County construction is underway for WOSB-FM, a part of the WOSU Stations based in Columbus. Plans call for the station to begin broadcasting during the first quarter of 1998.