Low-power television (LPTV), Class A and TV translator stations have until July 31, 2008, to settle digital companion channel conflicts or else join Auction 85 in November, where construction permits for pending and mutually exclusive companion channel applications will be auctioned off. The settlement opportunity stems from the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) requirement that all LPTV stations not required to make the digital television (DTV) switch on February 17, 2009, either convert to digital or locate a digital companion channel that will operate simultaneously with its analog channel.

While digital companion channels were never guaranteed, many stations filed applications with the FCC's Media Bureau in 2006 seeking a match that would delay the conversion to digital. The applicants that encountered engineering conflicts now have an opportunity to make amends and continue with digital companion channel procedures. If the FCC does not approve the proposed settlement agreement or engineering amendments, a limited number of qualified applicants will move on to Auction 85 to bid on and redeem permits.

A list of qualified applicants along with amendment procedures may be found in the FCC's Notice.

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