KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (SUBMITTED) -- East Tennessee Public Television (ETPtv) has experienced a failure of one of the station’s major signal transmitters, which has resulted in the cessation of analog broadcasting on WKOP, Channel 15. At this timeETPtvare unsure if it will be possible to return the analog transmitter to service before the federally mandated DTV transition date of Feb. 17, 2009.

Reception is still available. ETPtv has made the mandated digital transition early and is broadcasting all the regular programming from the state-of-the-art digital transmitter. Any viewer experiencing the loss of their analog signal can take measures to receive the digital signal. The simplest, and most effective method, is through the use of a converter box. Converter boxes are available for purchase at most electronics retailers. It connects right to your set and allows you to receive multiple channels from ETPtv, as well as, from most other broadcasters in this area. The federal government will help with most of the costs of the converter box through a coupon program.

ETPtv sincerely regrets the inconvenience this may cause viewers who rely on over-the-air television. If you can no longer receive WKOP, Channel 15, please call our signal hotline at 1.800.595.0220 ext. 239 andETPtvwill provide you with all the information you need to restore WKOP programming on your set. “We’re very sorry for the loss of our analog signal to our viewers. However, ETPtv is excited to offer two digital signals with better picture quality and sound”, said Teresa James, General Manager, East Tennessee Public Television. “I encourage any one who relies on television signals through antenna to act now and take the necessary steps to prepare for the digital conversion. It only takes a couple of simple steps to be all set for digital TV today.”

(Information submitted by East Tennessee Public Television.)