WKAR-HD (23.1), which features widescreen high definition programs scheduled by PBS and provided directly to WKAR for broadcast.

 

WKAR-23 (23.2) is a simulcast of WKAR’s program schedule, combining children’s, public affairs, how-to, performances and more. Whether one watches on analog or digital sets, the same great program schedule is available.

 

WKAR Life (23.3) will feature how-to and lifestyles programs during daytime hours with exclusive offerings and encore broadcasts of WKAR-23 programs during primetime. Included are the popular interview series, Charlie Rose, a 6 p.m. broadcast of The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, and the documentary series Expose.

 

WKAR World (23.4) will feature public broadcasting programs that explore all facets of our world, from history and geography to documentary and public affairs. This service is new to PBS this year. Included are programs like WKAR’ Off the Record and others not seen on WKAR, including Asian America, European Journal, Sierra Club Chronicles and a 10 p.m. airing of The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

 

(Non-digital viewers who watch WKAR through Comcast cable services in the Greater Lansing/East Lansing/Meridian areas will also be able to view WKAR Life and WKAR World on cable stations ‘KAR2 and ‘KAR3.)

 

All television stations are required to switch to digital broadcasting by February 2009, when the current analog television system is discontinued. When this happens, television sets that are not digital will no longer work without a converter box or digital cable/satellite service.

 

“One of the most frequent comments we hear from viewers and members is that they love watching the great programming on WKAR,” says Kent Wieland, WKAR station and program manager. “They often say they wish there were more program options like WKAR. Well, now we can provide additional channels, which will allow us to schedule programs not currently seen on WKAR-TV. We can also offer more variety and repeat some of the favorite programs at different times.”

 

Wieland reminds viewers that while they may not currently have a digital television, cable/satellite or converter box, they will need one by February 2009, when the switchover to digital broadcasting – which was federally mandated by the FCC – takes place. “We’re just getting ahead of the game,” he says. We have so many good programs, why wait another year?”

 

Viewers may watch WKAR Digital TV through one of several methods, including: using their existing television with a set-top converter box (soon available in retail stores); purchasing a new digital television and using it with a current or new antenna, or through a cable/satellite subscription service (not all cable providers may initially carry WKAR’s digital channels; consult cable company for channel location).

 

The cost of using a digital set-top converter box on an existing television set will be approximately $50 for the cost of the box, and offer better picture quality as well as all four channels.

 

A new digital television set will have its tuner built in. This method requires an antenna; viewers may use any current antenna they have, or purchase a new one. All four digital channels offer higher quality picture and sound. WKAR’s digital programming is free, as always. (Not all televisions include high definition, which is somewhat more expensive, but provides outstanding images. If purchasing a new television set, discuss options with a reputable sales person.)

 

Those watching on digital cable or satellite may receive some or all of WKAR’s digital channels. This method requires a monthly fee to a service provider, and some providers may charge more for their HD-tier than their digital tier. Check with providers on the location of WKAR digital channels.

 

WKAR will provide digital program listing information to cable stations’ interactive program guides and newspapers for their television listings grid. However, it is up to the media as to whether or not they are used. For the most complete and up-to-date schedule information, visit WKAR.org. The website will be able to tell visitors when a program is repeated, on which services, and even provide an e-mail reminder. Program listings are also available to WKAR-TV members in the monthly program magazine Fine Tuning.

 

For a list of frequently asked questions pertaining to WKAR, visit the station’s website at WKAR.org, or contact WKAR at (517) 432-9527 or e-mail mail@wkar.org.