Misinformation abounds as digital TV shift nears

By now, most consumers are aware that some kind of switch is set for February that has to do with their televisions and digital signals.</p><p>But after that, degrees of knowledge vary wildly.</p><p>Consider Ann Thompson, who lives with her mother in Blue Springs. Thompson was caught up in the confusion about the difference between digital TV signals and high-definition TV sets.</p><p>But more than anything, Thompson, who works at an area law firm, wanted to make sure she and her mom aren't going to be misled by businesses seeking to sell TV products to people who may not be up to speed on the nuances of the digital age.</p><p>Then there's Kathlene Hawkins, who lives in downtown Kansas City. Hawkins bought a new TV in February that has a digital tuner and now has better reception than ever.</p><p>Many consumers are like Jim Jones of Pleasant Hill, who proudly proclaims that he “graduated from electronics school way back in the '60s.” Jones said he's been preparing for the switch for more than four years.</p><p>The “switch” is a government-mandated change in the way television programming is transmitted — from analog signals, which have been in use since the beginning of television, to digital technology.</p><p>Testing is to begin in September in Wilmington, N.C., with the rollout to the rest of the nation set for Feb.



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