WASHINGTON, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- New government guidelines should make the long-delayed transition to digital and high-definition television much easier, it was reported Thursday.
The Federal Communications Commission has issued new standards aimed at making future digital TV sets more compatible with cable offerings, the Washington Post reported. When implemented by set-makers, many digital-cable subscribers, with the use of a "smart card," should be able to plug digital sets into their cable connection without an intervening cable box in most cases.
FCC Chairman Michael K. Powell called the new rules "good for consumers." Trade groups representing the cable and consumer-electronics industries characterized the decision as a landmark that would hasten the adoption of digital television.
According to the National Association of Broadcasters, 80 percent of U.S. households are in markets with five or more broadcasters airing digital signals. Sales of digital TV sets are up, expected to hit 4 million this year. Sets now average $1,500.
