Another digital TV test is Thursday

YOUNGSTOWN — The Mahoning Valley’s three television stations will participate in a nationwide test from 7:31 p.m. to 7:36 p.m. Thursday to show viewers which TV sets are ready for the Feb. 17 transition to digital broadcasting.

It is the second time the Federal Communications Commission called for the test — the first was Dec. 17 — and a third test will also be held before the changeover.

During the test, stations will halt their analog signal for five minutes. Television sets that aren’t digital-ready will just get a message stating that the set needs to be upgraded to digital, either by hooking it up to a cable or satellite provider, or installing a digital converter box. A phone number will be shown where viewers can get information.

For more information, go to www.dtv2009.gov.