The pace of homes getting ready for the digital TV changeover is quickening, but with the Feb. 17 transition date approaching, the potential is growing for a significant loss of TV audience for advertisers. There is still the possibility that the switchover date will be postponed, probably to June 12. Nielsen today reported that 6.5 million households—5.7% of the nation—are still totally unready, but that the numbers are higher in some locations and in some demographics. Nielsen said 9.9% of African-American households and 9.7% of Hispanic households are totally unready. Nielsen defines as totally unready households without digital TV sets or converter boxes that aren't hooked up to cable or satellite. Nielsen's numbers suggest a number of big markets—among them Los Angeles, Phoenix and Houston—could temporarily lose more than 10% of Hispanic or African-American households with the digital changeover.
