FCC steps in to fix Phila. digital TV problems

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, June, 2009 | by Bob Fernandez Inquirer Staff Writer

Faced with angry viewers throughout the Philadelphia area, the federal agency that regulates television stations says it will send extra staffers here to help people make the switch to digital TV and measure digital-TV signals.

Thousands of over-the-air viewers have lost reception of market-leading 6ABC and WHYY, the public-television station, since Friday's nationwide switch from analog TV signals to digital signals.

The Federal Communications Commission acknowledged that these people also lost access to Oprah, their afternoon soaps, and other favorite TV shows. 

"We are looking at all available options to resolve these issues. We will act quickly, but thoughtfully," FCC acting chairman Michael J. Copps said yesterday in a statement. 

The FCC will focus...