They have to be on the air no later than 2003, and at that point they'll be transmitting both analog on the original channels and digital on the new channel, and by 2006, then, the conversion will be final. Accompanying audio is CD-quality, with up to six channels of surround sound. It will be possible to broadcast up to six completely separate programs simultaneously. In addition, Internet data will be able to be transmitted alongside this to make interactive television. All commercial broadcasters will have completed their conversion one year earlier.
Additional information is available online .
FCC mandates that all broadcasts must be fully digital by 2006. Extra analog spectrum must be relinquished as those stations go off the air. But that doesn't slow down the need to put on the digital channel. That is still 2003, and for everybody the really important date is next year, when you file for the construction permit, because at that time you have to give assurances about the fact that you are going to make the transition, and you have to give assurances that you will be able to afford to make the transition. There are several things, and it applies not just to public, although it is certainly critically important to us.