Emergency Alert System stuck on TV screen...

Question

They do those "Required Weekly Tests" about two times a day, but on this one channel it stays on the screen for over an hour. After the alert is over instead of switching back to the regular program it stays on the screen, but I can hear the regular show. They do it during my favorite show, and I can't figure out how to get it to go off. I have tried unhooking the cable cord and turning the TV off then on. Does anyone know what else I can do? Why does it just do this on this one channel!!???

Answer 1

This answer assumes that is a cable system wide problem and not a problem with your cable converter box locking up after the test. If it is a problem with the cable system. There is nothing you can do at your home to fix the problem.

Here is how EAS (Emergency Alert System) works (Generic - each brand is slightly different)

The EAS system detector senses a signal from an authorized source including the test source, and activates a relay (electronic switch)  that causes that channel to be interrupted for the test/alert. The system is designed for multiple channels (almost all the cable channels the system offers). This is an automated process.

When the end of test tone or end of alert tone is received the relay activates and each channel switches back to normal programming.

What is happening is the relay for one channel is faulty and not switching back to programming.  The cable system tech will have to switch it back manually. If it is happening that often then there is an equipment problem in the cable system head-end. The relay is getting false tones. I am sure the cable system is aware of the problem.

The only thing you can do is call the cable system and tell them what is happening when it happens.  

Answer 2

LOL I've noticed that they do them more often than necessary. Ours says it's a monthly test but it's on at least twice a week.

That doesn't sound right that it stays on for so long. I would call the cable company to let them know that something's wrong with the test screen on that channel.

edit: I know. I said they do ours more often than they should here, too.