Wausau/Rhinelander CBS, NBC and ABC Network Television Stations confirm conversion to digital tv on February 17, 2009.

The CBS, NBC and ABC Network television stations serving the Wausau/Rhinelander market area will convert to digital only broadcasting on Tuesday February 17, 2009 at 1200 p.m. (noon). The announcement was made today, jointly, by management of WSAW TV (CBS), WJFW TV (NBC) and WAOW/WYOW TV (ABC).

On Wednesday February 4, 2009, Congress will most likely pass a law to delay the conversion to June 12, 2009, but allows for stations to convert earlier, which area broadcasters have elected to do. Officials have expressed concern that the government’s coupon program had built a waiting list of people who wish to purchase converter boxes.

In a joint statement, the stations’ representatives said their research and conversations indicate that less than 1% of the households in the market are not yet prepared for the conversion from analog to digital only. The stations said they would be happy to answer any questions viewers might have through their station websites or via phone calls during regular business hours.

Also in a joint statement, “Stations in this market have done an outstanding job of educating the public to this conversion and that it would occur on February 17. We greatly appreciate the opportunity to convert in February as we believe our viewers are ready”.

Viewers who watch via satellite or on cable most likely will not have to do anything. It is those who watch “over the air” that may need to purchase a converter box, antenna (outdoor recommended) or a television set with digital capabilities.