But others aren't passing along the networks' higher-quality offerings, instead broadcasting a digitized version of the regular analog signal. Digital TV owners may have more luck with alternative sources of programming. Satellite services DirecTV and EchoStar's Dish Network offer HDTV shows from such programmers as HBO and Showtime. Local cable system operators also are starting to test or are showing interest in carrying HBO's high-definition programming, Zitter says. Beyond a lack of programming, the transition to digital TV faces further static.
Some broadcasters question the quality of the digital transmission standard.
And Hollywood is concerned about adequate copy protection before making its product available in high-quality digital formats. At the same time, broadcasters and cable companies continue to argue over whether local digital channels should automatically be carried on cable systems. The government plans to auction broadcasters' analog spectrum to other wireless services after the transition is complete. In fact, the anticipated budget surplus, much debated in the presidential campaign, includes billions of dollars from that auction. All commercial stations are expected to be transmitting digitally alongside their analog signals by May 2002.