What happens to analog television?

Question

Just because everything is going digital doesn't mean analog has to cease. Can people buy the frequencies to broadcast over analog?

Answer 1

No.  The analog frequencies (VHF) belong to the gov't, and they will be using them for civil defense.  Some UHF low-power analog stations may still be running for a while, after February 17, 2009.

Answer 2

No, the analog signal is being phased out.  In February it will be illegal for a full power TV station to transmit the analog signal and the FCC is preparing to make the same requirement apply to the remaining low power stations.  One thing at a time . . .

The frequencies (channel space) are a different issue.  The FCC is using the transition to move all the TV stations closer together to free up space.  After the transition, TV channels 2-4 and 53+ will be assigned to other services (cellular, land mobile radio, public safety).  The FCC is trying to use every bit of spectrum it can find.

So, the frequencies will be auctioned, but only for the services designated for that group of frequencies, and analog TV isn't a possibility.  The auction "winner" doesn't own the frequency, either.  They just won the right to be the first to "rent" it from the government.

I hope this helps.  Please return and select a Best Answer from all of those submitted.

Answer 3

The frequencies that analog currently uses are being assigned to other uses by the FCC. So as far as getting one assigned for broadcast TV, probably not.