Erie’s Digital Dilemma--- Chapter 3---How To Bring The Erie Consumer Out Of the Dark Ages

The comment was mentioned that “Erie doesn’t care about digital TV.” Actually, I have to agree. Whose fault is that? Traditionally, Erie has both benefited and been a victim of its own media isolation. At one time this isolation was an advantage when Erie was a budding test market for new products. It can also prevent us from experiencing new dimensions in thinking and challenging the senses.

In chapter 1, I laid the claim that either by design or accident, the Erie media has kept the Erie consumer confused and ignorant about the dawning digital television age. I noticed a few comments, filed from readers outside Erie County that can receive Pittsburgh or Youngstown digital HD as well as Erie. One said that Erie doesn’t know what it (HD) is missing and that is so true.

But I am not here to dredge up the past or place blame, but to suggest one way that the Erie media can be helpful to consumers.. There may be other solutions and I would like to hear it, but for now you’re going to hear mine.

Best Buy, Circuit City and others has been bombarding the consumer with ads for amazingly cheap analog TV’s. The reason is that both manufactures and retailers are trying to unload their floor of the old analog designs to make way for the new models which contain both analog and digital tuners. Consumers have to be cautious that their investment in new or old analog receivers won’t be short lived.

It is time right now that the Erie television stations, the Erie Times-News and Time-Warner to begin an education program and prepare the public for the digital reality of February 17, 2009. The area needs to hear consumer friendly stories that tell the public that they have to be a wise shopper, but also not to necessarily be alarmed about the usefulness of their existing receivers.

I believe the time is right now that the Erie television community needs to form a working digital committee that coordinates a singular message. (Erie television stations working together? Is that a radical idea!)

There are many messages that the public needs to hear now rather than later. (1) That digital TV is available right now and how they can get it. (2) February 17, 2009 all analog broadcasts will end. (3) That if they receive their television by cable or satellite, that the sets that are connected will not become obsolete. (4) If they receive their television entertainment over-the-air, that they can request a voucher good for $40 toward the purchase of a digital-to-analog converter box that will allow them to use their existing television. (5) That the world of digital high definition television and 5.1 digital sound will open a world of experiences and give them a theater experience in their own home. (Of course I hope number 5 is true in Erie.) WICU did some of that to a point, but in a self serving way,.

The Erie Times-News could do stories about why the move to digital and write about the law that was passed last December and signed by President Bush. Not just why we are moving to digital but also the importance of freeing up the communications spectrum for homeland security. Recap the stories about the communication problems that took place on 911 and during last year’s record hurricane season and the improvement it is meant to provide in public safety. These are important life and death issues that only the print media can bring home.

From a dollar and sense perspective, The Times-News should advise consumers during the upcoming holiday season (I would have said Christmas but I was afraid a judge would shut me down for violating the separation of religion) about selecting a TV. In short, stay away from analog bargains unless you have cable or satellite.

The Erie consumer needs to be educated and told the truth. Right now the $40 voucher for a digital conversion box will not cover the entire cost and only two vouchers are currently allowed per home. For people who live in rural areas or are so low income that they can’t afford cable, this will be an issue that will hit their pocketbook.

Right now, I can’t think of a better public service that serves the interest of the broadcaster as well as the public. I for one stand ready to volunteer. I challenge the media to respond and do the right thing for Erie consumers. . If any of the media have any other ideas and want to post their suggestions, I invite you to write it up and send it to me at gut48@yahoo.com and I will post it. I only ask that you use your full name and provide your company affiliation for posting. Profanity in posts will not be allowed.

Next: The Tiffany Network Sparkles in High Definition