Digital Services
Television broadcasters across the nation are in the midst of a transition from an analog signal – the traditional way we have broadcast – to a digital signal, offering higher-quality picture and sound, multiple programming choices and interactive capabilities. This transition is required by the Federal Communications Commission, which has mandated that, as of February 2009, full-power TV stations will cease broadcasting on their current analog channels and the spectrum they use for analog broadcasting will be reclaimed and put to other uses.
KLRU's conversion to digital technology is complete. The station now broadcasts a standard definition digital channel and a high definition digital channel on both Time Warner Cable and Grande Communications, and we are evaluating new program streams regularly.
The following are answers to some of the most common questions about digital television:
What is digital television?
The picture most KLRU viewers receive is based on a 50-year-old analog transmission system. In December 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the U.S. standard for a new era of television -- digital television. In a digital system, images and sound are captured using the same digital code found in computers -- ones and zeroes.
The digital revolution has dramatically improved the quality of the television picture, but also made possible the over- the-air delivery of several simultaneous services to viewers. This is due primarily to the three main benefits of the digital system: high definition television, multicasting in standard definition television and data transmission.
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What channel is KLRU's digital signal?
KLRU’s digital signal is available in two ways. The signal is currently offered over-the-air which means that viewers will need a set-top-box, a TV with a digital tuner or a special computer card and possibly an antenna to receive KLRU’s digital signal.
The digital signal is available over the air at the following channel designations. (These designations are current as of May 2008, but may change from time to time as new program streams are added or times are revised).:
- 18-1: KLRU-HD (High Definition duplication of KLRU’s primary channel
- 18-2: KLRU Create
KLRU’s digital signal will also be offered at these channel designations on Time Warner Cable and Grande Communications:
- Time Warner 1541: KLRU-HD
- Time Warner 1542: KLRU Create
- Grande Communications 170: KLRU Create
- Grande Communications 309: KLRU HD
KLRU, KLRU2, and KLRU-G will continue to be available to our viewers until the FCC and Congress determine that we can no longer offer these analog channels.
See complete schedule information on our Web site.
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What is High Definition Television (HDTV)?
High Definition Television, or HDTV, is essentially a better quality picture and more clear sound to give you the quality of a movie experience in your home. HDTV is high-resolution digital television combined with Dolby Digital surround sound. HDTV requires new production and transmission equipment at public television stations as well as new equipment for consumers. However, the promise of this higher resolution picture is very attractive to many consumers. Imagine 720 or 1080 lines of resolution compared to the 525 lines you see on a traditional television -- it's incredible. KLRU plans to broadcast in HDTV when high definition programs are available. Most of the HDTV broadcasts will be in the evening with PBS signature series.
KLRU now offers high definition programs 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
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Does this mean I have to get a new television set?
Not yet. You don't have to buy a new television set until at least 2008. Viewers will still be able to watch KLRU on the television set you have used for years. This is because Congress has mandated that broadcasters continue using the old technology to give consumers time to adjust.
However, if you are planning to buy a new television, you should strongly consider purchasing a set that is capable of receiving a digital signal or waiting until such a set is available. Beware, manufacturers are not yet required to add digital receivers to their television sets so there is still a lot of confusion about what is actually a "digital-ready-set."
There are several ways to receive digital technology, even through your old set. So you don't have to rush out right away and buy a new set. Cable systems are already offering digital service through set-top boxes, like the old boxes many consumers used to receive cable when it first came out.
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How do I view KLRU in the digital format?
There are many ways to view digital television. You can purchase a digital set top box and antenna and attach it to your analog television to receive KLRU's digital signal over the air. Another option is to purchase Time Warner's Digital Cable Service.
If you wish to view KLRU's digital signal over the air you can view it on Channel 18-1& 18-2. KLRU is offered on Time Warner's Digital Cable on channels 1541 (KLRU main/ High Definition) and 1542 (multicast channel 2). KLRU is offered on Grande Communications Digital Cable on channels 309 (KLRU main/ High Definition) and 170 (KLRU multicast channel 2).
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What will this mean to the average KLRU viewer?
We view this digital transformation as a golden opportunity for KLRU and our viewers. For years our programming department has struggled over how to fit all of the wonderful programs for kids and adults on the air.
Many programs have had to run late into the evening because of the variety of programs available from PBS and the growing independent film industry.
Digital television, however, will change that because it will allow KLRU to schedule multiple programs at the same time. This will allow us to offer more for kids without leaving out the vast array of how-to-programs, documentaries, films, and other important programs for adults.
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Contact Us for More Information
David Kuipers
VP for Engineering
KLRU-TV
p.o. box 7158 // austin, texas // 78713-7158
main 512.471.4811 // fax 512.475-9090
email dkuipers@klru.org
