WFRV-TV Channel 5 has stopped broadcasting programming on its analog signal, and is now broadcasting only on it's digital channel.
"WFRV is pleased to be able to be the test station for the DTV transition in Northeast Wisconsin," said Channel 5 President and General Manager Perry Kidder. "This will be a great way for viewers to determine if their converter boxes and new digital televisions are hooked up and working properly. When looking to watch programs like Channel 5 News, 60 Minutes or Oprah, viewers will be able to determine if their equipment is working. Otherwise, viewers won’t see the programs at all."
Starting at 12:40am Wednesday morning, WFRV began broadcasting a 20-minute instructional video on it's analog channel regarding the transition, how to hook up converter boxes, and frequently asked questions regarding digital broadcasting. This information will be broadcast for two weeks before the analog transmitter is turned off.
Converter boxes are readily available at electronics stores across Northeast Wisconsin. Viewers are reminded to get their converter boxes or digital televisions to avoid missing any of their favorite Channel 5 programming.
"We have compiled a lot of info, links, and frequently asked questions on our website,” said Tom Swigert, Technical Operations Manager for WFRV. “We have also posted instructional videos on how to connect your converter box, and what kind of antenna you may need to receive a good digital signal." For more information on the DTV transition, how to install and use converter boxes, and step by step videos, visit
www.wfrv.com/dtv.
Viewers that have additional questions about receiving the digital signal are also invited to call the Wisconsin DTV Call Center at 1-800-422-9707. The call center’s regular hours are:
- Mon-Tues: 9am - 4:30pm
- Wed-Fri: 9am - 9pm
- Saturday: 10:30am - 6:30pm
- Sunday: 12pm - 7:30pm
The call center will operate through March 30, 2009.
A 24-hour national DTV hotline is also available by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC. (888-225-5322)
