The FCC’s dual must-carry, or “viewability,” rule will sunset December 12, 2012. The “viewability” rule requires cable operators with hybrid analog-digital systems to carry digital must-carry signals in both analog and digital format.  

Steps to Drop Analog Carriage. Operators of hybrid systems who want to phase out carriage of analog must-carry signals on December 12, 2012 can do so by: 

(i)               Offering analog subscribers conversion equipment for sale or lease, either for free or at an affordable cost (to the FCC, affordable means a monthly fee of $2 or less); 

(ii)              Providing 90 days prior written notice of the change to affected stations; and 

(iii)            Providing 30 days prior written notice to customers affected by a service change.  

Note: Hybrid systems must continue carrying must-carry stations in both analog and digital formats until December 12, 2012.  

 If you have any questions about the viewability rules, please contact Bruce Beard at (314) 394-1535 or bbeard@cm-chi.com or Scott Friedman at (312) 372-3930 or sfriedman@cm-chi.com.