Last week, broadcasters celebrated the success of the completed digital television (DTV) transition and showcased new technologies for policymakers on Capitol Hill. The National Association of Broadcasters joined chief sponsors ION Media Networks and the Open Mobile Video Coalition (OMVC) in hosting an event demonstrating the next generation of digital programming and services for members of Congress, their staff and administration officials.

At the packed event attended by more than 200 people, policymakers were able to see first hand the latest high-definition television technology and new free digital channels broadcasters are providing for viewers. The showcase also served as a prelude to a mobile DTV consumer showcase which will go live later this year in the Washington, D.C., market providing a consumer test bed for mobile DTV content, services and features. About 70 television stations serving 28 markets nationwide have announced plans to begin providing mobile DTV services by the end of this year.

“The DTV transition proved once again that television is a vital part of American life,” said Paul Karpowicz, president of Meredith Broadcasting Group and chairman of the NAB Television Board of Directors. “We’re anxious to help viewers not only enjoy TV in their homes, but on the go.”

“Much of the transition has been about keeping people’s analog televisions from going dark,” said Brandon Burgess, chairman and CEO of ION Media Networks. “Now, it’s time to showcase the great new services made possible by DTV.” Burgess also is president of the OMVC, a voluntary association of television broadcasters whose mission is to accelerate the development of mobile digital television in the United States.

Karpowicz and Burgess were joined by White House official Susan Crawford, Reps. John Dingell (MI-15), Cliff Stearns (FL-06) and Ed Markey (MA-07) and ION Executive Vice President and NAB Television Board Member John Lawson. WUSA-TV news anchor and consumer reporter Lesli Foster moderated the event.

LG Electronics, the Association for Maximum Service Television (MSTV), the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC), the Minority Media and Telecom Counsel (MMTC), the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and the Association of Public Television Stations (APTS) also cosponsored the event, along with manufacturers Dell, Harris Corporation, Kenwood, Roundbox, Rohde & Schwarz and Samsung.