said by tschmidt :

This has been in the works for years. I say full speed ahead.

Best thing to do is go ahead with analog phaseout. Once broadcasters are on their post transition channels evaluate coverage areas and interference levels.

If change is needed some may be accommodated with antenna redesign in other cases by increase in transmit power or locating low power translators.

Problems are only going to be dealt with once there is no other choice. Not going to know full impact of digital conversion will have until millions of people involved in different areas of the country. Calculating radio wave propagation is part science part black magic.

As someone dependant on over the air TV I hope it works. Living in a fringe area I've done a lot of research and am spending a fair amount of money to upgrade our roof top antenna. If it doesn't work out our family will either watch less TV or opt for paying monthly fee to Satellite or Cable provider. No matter what happens it is not the end of the world.

/tom