Xboxist

The Digital Switch

On February 17, 2009 the United States will "switch" from an analog to digital broadcast. Hopefully, most of our viewers are aware of the switch from analog to digital. Why are we reporting this event as it's non game related? We believe it's our responsibility to our readers to help spread the word.

Currently, President Obama is urging to delay the mandated switch from February to June according to LA Times, due to the government's depleted funds for coupon vouches for citizens and insufficient education to the masses. A note about educating the public, the digital switch does not mean all channels will air in high-definition. Owners may and/or will continue to pay a subscriber or HD Package fee to receive high-definition channels from their cable provider. We mentioned this as fact as many Americans believe the digital switch will magically display the beauty of high-definition content to their televisions, which is false. What will display stunning high-definition pictures are those XBOX 360 and (especially) PS3 consoles. If you haven't upgraded your television or cable connection from console to TV, now is the time! Circuit City is holding a liquidation sale for bankruptcy. Read about the 'going out of business' sale in our boards.

The entertainment industry, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin's view, and Pres. Obama's perspective regarding when the digital switch should occur is controversial. As a consumer, what are your views regarding the digital switch. Should the switch "stay on course" as ex-President George W. Bush would say or initiate a delay?

For more information about the digital switch, please visit Digital TV Transition and DTV Answers.