LodgeNet Helps Hotels Prepare for DTV Transition

by Doug Lung, 11.21.2008

While most DTV transition education efforts have focused on viewers watching off-air TV over-the-air on their own indoor or outdoor antennas, many viewers rely on the master antenna systems installed in apartment buildings, condominiums or hotels.

LodgeNet announced a plan last week to prepare its United States hotel customers for the February full-power analog shutdown.

"The FCC mandate to move local broadcast channels to a digital signal has significant implications for our hotel customers," said Scott E. Young, president of hospitality and chief marketing officer for LodgeNet. "Our digital transition roadmap is part of the proactive initiative we have undertaken to help our hotel customers understand this issue, and to ensure that they maintain a superior guest experience during and after the February 17 transition."

LodgeNet has been in contact with more than 1,600 properties, and said it will perform site surveys at these locations to assess the specific technical needs at each hotel. Once the changes needed at a hotel are determined, LodgeNet will propose customized solution for that property. LodgeNet will also offer the delivery of local stations via DirecTV as well as local HDTV using off-air antennas.