Television is a window to the world through which we can be ceaselessly entertained and informed. It encompasses a tremendous variety of programming for consumption by an ever-enthusiastic consumer audience. 67 percent of U.S. households own two or more receivers. Average daily television household viewing is over seven hours. Television is the main news source for 70 percent of the U.S. public.
Television is certainly a pervasive medium.
However, the technical system upon which this marvel of engineering is based is nearing the limits of its useful life. Like all other communications services, television and television broadcasting are moving toward a digital delivery platform. As this revolution gets underway, the migration to digital technology will be harmonious with, and is perhaps even a natural consequence of, the increasing technical sophistication of the modern television viewing audience. It is particularly gratifying to us that the terrestrial broadcasting industry has done so much to bring this new service to reality. As you read the story of how the DTV phenomenon has unfolded, you will see the central and recurring role that broadcasters have played throughout the process.