The television stations of Maine will conduct a series of digital TV readiness tests to help viewers determine if they are prepared for the end of full-power analog broadcasting next February.
The tests, lasting 60 seconds each, will begin at 6:28 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17; Weds., Dec. 17; and Weds., Jan. 20.
WABI, WVII and WLBZ (Bangor), WAGM (Presque Isle), WCSH and WGME (Portland), WMTW (Poland Spring/Portland), WPFO (Waterville/Portland) and the five stations of Maine Public Television in Augusta, Biddeford, Orono, Calais and Presque Isle, will alert viewers and explain how the test will work.
WPME (Lewiston/Portland) and WPXT (Portland), will also promote the tests, although bothhave already ceased broadcasting analog signals.
In the tests—as other broadcasters have done—the stations will simulate the termination of analog broadcasting by displaying a full-screen graphic on their analog signals, with a phone number viewers can call for help and information.
A toll-free hotline ((866) 418-7678), sponsored by the Maine Association of Broadcasters will be staffed from early November through late February.
