Rich Warren | The poor stepchildren of broadcast programming | Science-technology
1. The Evolution of Television Channels
Long-time residents of East Central Illinois remember the days when they only had access to two out of the three television networks. However, with the expansion of cable and streaming services, the number of available channels has significantly increased. This has provided viewers with a wide range of options for their entertainment.
2. The Mystery of Broadcast TV Channel 18.4
A reader recently raised a question about broadcast TV channel 18.4, which primarily airs old game shows such as “What’s My Line?,” “To Tell the Truth,” and “Blockbusters.” However, this channel frequently experiences downtime, sometimes lasting for days. When it is not working, viewers may encounter a black screen or a red screen displaying technical information. The inconsistency of this channel has left viewers wondering about its reliability.
3. The Significance of Subsidiary Channels
In order to incentivize broadcasters to transition to digital broadcasting, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provided them with up to four additional subsidiary channels. These channels allowed broadcasters to offer a variety of programming options to their viewers. The main channel (.1) would provide high-definition content, while subsequent channels would offer standard-definition programming. However, the introduction of subchannels can impact the range and quality of a station’s signal.
Many broadcasters utilized their .2 channel for local programming or to carry content from affiliates in different markets. Broadcast networks, excluding PBS, did not provide additional programming for these channels. Instead, program agglomerators emerged, specializing in acquiring old TV shows at minimal cost and offering them to stations to fill their subchannels. These subchannels generate revenue through advertising, although they attract fewer viewers compared to the main channels.
While broadcasters prioritize keeping their main signal on the air to maximize profits from network programming, local news, and features, the subsidiary channels often receive less attention. The FCC does not impose requirements for the maintenance of subchannels, unlike the obligation to keep the main channels operational.
As the final analysis, the evolution of television channels has brought about a significant increase in options for viewers. However, the reliability of certain channels, such as broadcast TV channel 18.4, remains a concern. The utilization of subsidiary channels has allowed broadcasters to offer diverse programming, but it comes with limitations that affect signal range and quality. As broadcasters focus on maximizing profits from their main channels, the subsidiary channels often become the neglected “stepchildren” of broadcast programming.
