Baker: Stations Should Offer DTV Converter Boxes

Acting National Telecommunications and Information Administration head Meredith Attwell Baker suggests that broadcasters consider stocking digital-TV-to-analog converter boxes themselves and be ready to give them out free-of-charge to viewers who need them as a "stopgap measure" for over-the air viewers. She pointed out that broadcasters could put their station logos on the boxes, which would allow them to build brand awareness while they were helping out. She said broadcasters should also make a point of including their own station phone numbers on DTV-education messages online and on-air to make sure they are a local point of contact for viewers who need help with reception or connection issues.