I found an article about the recent digital TV switch set to be instated on February 17th throughout the United States. In this Fox News article, it was discussed that President Obama is attempting to push back the digital TV switch due to inequity between class groups. Obama feels that if the switch is made, many rural, elderly, and minority groups will not have access to a working television. Also, switching from an antenna to the new technology requires a converter box, which may be too pricey for some families. The previous solution to this issue was to provide these families/people with converter box coupons, however, the waiting list for the coupons is currently exceeding 1.1 million people. The digital TV switch has many positive influences including freeing up airwaves to be used for other services such as emergency wireless lines. However, if minorities and many poverty-stricken people will lose this form of communication and information, are the benefits worth the cost?
I can't really decide how I feel about this issue. I agree that people shouldn't lose access to this valuable communication medium, however, I understand the need for use of those taken airwaves. Does anyone have an opinion with some support on this issue?
Article: Can be found on Fox.com under Obama: Let's Postpone Digital TV Switch
I agree with you, the issue is difficult. But, in the long run, I think it would be best to convert to digital television just because of the multiple advantages you mentioned, and because technological improvement is always beneficial and usually well worth it in the future.
ReplyDeleteThis case reminds me of when DVDs first came out. At first, only the select few who could afford it had it, while everyone else continued to use VCRs. But today, a couple years later, it seems like the majority of people have switched over to DVDs; most stores don't even carry VCRs anymore. I think if Obama deceided to go through with the digital TV plan, that eventually people will adapt and that the technology required for such changes will become most easily and widely available, just as DVDs have become.