Audio Video News

Until now concerns over the transition to digital television, scheduled for 2009, have centered on broadcast-dependent viewers. But satellite viewers may be in for trouble too.

DirecTV and EchoStar have told the Federal Communications Commission that they may not be able to switch over all channels in time. Said EchoStar to the FCC: "Given the magnitude of the switchover...even conducting the transition over a matter of many months would be a substantial hurdle." The company blamed insufficient manpower.

DirecTV was more "optimistic that we will make the transition," a spokesperson told TV Predictions. But the company wants the FCC to make local broadcasters reveal their transition plans by December of this year to give satellite operators enough time to make the switch.

Last week the FCC issued must carry rules requiring cable operators to deliver all channels to both digital and analog viewers.