On Friday, July 18 Belo's Portland, Ore., NBC affiliate KGW will pull the plug on its newscast briefly so viewers can find out if their television is ready for conversion to digital television.

KGW business reporter Joe Smith will guide viewers through the July 18 test during the station's 6 p.m. newscast. For five to 10 seconds the analog signal will be turned off. Viewers able to see the station's broadcast during that time have a television ready for DTV. For viewers who see snow, Joe Smith will explain what steps are needed to get ready for the DTV transition. 

"This on air test is another important step we're taking to ensure our viewers are ready for the February transition," said DJ Wilson, president and general manager of KGW. "Since January, we've been airing public service announcements and news stories about the coming transition. We also have a dedicated DTV section on our Web site that details what the conversion means and how to prepare for it."