HDTV by 2009 – Maybe Not

The United States is set to go digital as of 2009, which had been great news for HDTV fans. Regulations are in place that will force all content providers to begin broadcasting in digital. In March of 2007, all televisions that were manufactured or imported into the country had to be HD ready. Those people not on-board the technology bandwagon are set to be shocked when their reliable old televisions no longer pick up any of their favorite shows.

These people may see a break in the HDTV push. Just last week, it was being reported that the FCC Chairman, Kevin Martin, would propose that cable TV operators be forced to not only go digital, but have to continue carrying analog signals as well.

Many experts are not surprised by the move. When the push towards HDTV first began, most were skeptical that the 2009 deadline would be enforced. This move by the FCC Chairman seems to be the reprieve that some in the industry have been expecting.

HDTV industry observers are worried that the move could hinder providers from offering more digital programming. Forcing cable operators to broadcast the analog signals leaves less room for the expansion of HD channels.

It will be interesting to see if the push towards full HDTV continues or if the government will again fold and allow the analog signals to hold back the industry.