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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
I recently learned that the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires TV broadcasters to switch to a digital format by 2006. Many stations, including KSL-TV, have started transmitting digitally along with their analog signal. The major television networks are already broadcasting many of their programs in high-definition. You may have seen announcements of the HDTV format at the beginning of some primetime shows and major sporting events.
By next year, all commercial television stations are required to broadcast digital signals, and by 2006, the old analog signals will likely be a thing of the past. When all of this takes place what will happen to TV viewers like you and me? Thanks to WOW Digital TV, a new company in South Jordan, this question has already been answered. Whether you own an HDTV monitor or a regular analog TV, the company is producing a low-cost HDTV set-top receiver that will display the new high quality digital signal.
Called the WOW BOX, which is expected to retail under $200, the receiver simply connects to your TV and a digital antenna. It displays your favorite over-the-air TV channels and can also work in connection with cable or satellite services.
The box will certainly enhance viewing. It will not only provide an amazingly clear and detailed picture-of at least DVD quality, it will also let you watch several different video feeds from a single program, get more information about the show, shop for products and even interact with the programming.
Steve Lindsley and Kevin Doman, the company’s founders, say their product will give national and local broadcasters the tools and platform to deliver compelling digital content that will build a digital audience, and position WOW Digital TV as the leading provider of digital and interactive TV services.
So, how soon can we get the WOW BOX? The company is targeting next summer for availability. Meanwhile, WOW TV will partner with KSL-TV Channel 5 to test the product in 30 to 50 homes during the 2002 Winter Games.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
