July 1 is the deadline for all commercial and noncommercial DTV stations to crank up the power to full and replicate their analog coverage area. The FCC has issued its guidelines for the deadline. Stations broadcasting on a tentatively designated DTV channel just have to go to 80 percent replication.

Those stations that can't make the deadline will lose interference protection for their signal unless they obtain a waiver from the commission. The waiver allows a six-month extension for stations that can demonstrate "severe financial constraints or circumstances beyond [their] control." Appropriate documentation is necessary to qualify for a waiver.

More details about conditions in which a waiver may be required are available in the FCC Public Notice.