What will conversion to digital broadcasting cost?
With 12 transmitters throughout Michigan and additional equipment to convert master control rooms, independent engineering studies for Michigan’s public TV broadcasters estimate a one-time capital conversion cost of $38.8 million to comply with the mandate to convert to digital broadcasts. Radio transmitters will require an estimated $5 million to convert to digital, and statewide microwave interconnection of stations will cost $12.7 million, for a total of $56.5 million. In addition, stations will also have to pay for studio conversion, conversion of production equipment, and increased operating costs.
