A likely first for North Carolina broadcasting, 27 commercial stations aired a program about the transition to digital television (DTV) at the same time Saturday night.

"DTV 411" explained the benefits of DTV and what viewers can do to continue receiving their television signals after the February 17, 2009 transition deadline.

About 15 percent of viewers in North Carolina receive television exclusively over-the-air. However, many households with cable or satellite service still have other over-the-air sets in their homes. The program outlined the options available to consumers, including how to get coupons for converter boxes.

"The broadcasters of this state are committed to making this transition as smooth and painless as possible," said North Carolina Association of Broadcasters (NCAB) President Jim Hefner.