PLWC announces plans to broadcast our entire channel lineup in digital format starting in 2015.
Currently, PLWC broadcasts channels in our expanded basic lineup, channels 2-70 and 96 and 98, in both analog and digital formats. Due to the increased demand for higher bandwidth on Internet and pressure by the TV networks to carry additional channels, PLWC must take advantage of the bandwidth saving properties associated with digital broadcasting. Here are some answers to a few questions we expect customers may have.
Will my TV work with digital?
Since March 1, 2007, the FCC has mandated that all TV’s sold in the US be equipped with digital tuners. Most manufacturers started putting digital tuners in their TV’s much earlier than this. If your TV is over 10 years old, there is a good chance it does not have a digital tuner.
What if my TV does not have a digital tuner?
There are options available to allow you to continue to use your analog TV after we stop providing the analog signal. PLWC will offer a DTA (Digital Terminal Adapter) for $2 per month for those who would like to rent a box. There are also digital converter boxes for sale online or in electronic stores like Best Buy and Wal-Mart starting at around $35.
Will I need to have a set top box on all my TV’s?
No. If you are a subscriber to PLWC’s economy basic, or expanded basic cable service, and you do not subscribe to any premium channel’s like HBO, and your TV’s all have digital tuners, you will still be able to pick up all your channels without a set top box.
What about HD channels?
Many of the channels that you’ll receive under the new all digital format will be HD. Broadcast channels like KAIT – 8, WMC – 5, WHBQ – 13, WREG – 3, and favorites like ESPN, TBS, FX, and many more will be broadcast in HD. To get these, your TV will need to not only be equipped with a digital tuner, but also be HD capable. You can also get these using the DTA or our digital set tops.
I already have digital service through PLWC, will that change?
No, you will continue to receive the additional programming, i-guide data, pay-per-view options, Music Choice, and premium channels that you currently receive through your digital set top box. If you have TV’s in your house without boxes, they will receive the digitized expanded basic channels.