Countdown to the end [digital TV]

This paper discusses the different factors that contribute to the limited success of terrestrial digital television not just in the US but around the world. Although the US launched terrestrial digital broadcasts early in 1998, less than five percent of its 103 million households were equipped to receive them at the end of 2004. Fortunately, the technology is fast gaining momentum thanks in large part to government mandates for set design. Add a comprehensive market promotion plan aimed at consumers, and terrestrial digital TV broadcast service could begin to grow rapidly in the years ahead, bringing with it compelling and innovative digital services and an end to analog television.