The FCC has imposed a deadline on electronics manufacturers to include the receivers in new sets by 2007 at the latest; screens over 36 inches must be digital-ready by 2004. Starting the roll-out plan with larger sets, the Commission is hoping to minimise the expense for both manufacturers and consumers.
“Although analogue receivers are still dominant today, that will change as the transition to digital TV progresses,” says the FCC.
Reports say that the Consumer Electronic Association is unhappy with the move, claiming that it will benefit only those viewers who access DTV via the air (rather than cable or satellite transmission), whilst all TV buyers will have to shoulder the extra cost.
