Harris Corp. endorsed proposed CE adjustments in the schedule by ...

to March 1, by which time 100% of such TV sets would have to include digital ATSC tuners. The groups also want to eliminate a July 1, 2005, phase-in schedule stipulating when 50% of 25"-36” sets must have built-in DTV tuners. Harris said it agrees with the CE “proposition” that by doing so, the FCC will “expedite the delivery” of ATSC-capable TV sets and eliminate the potential for “marketplace distortions” that may impede the DTV rollout. “Now is the time for the Commission to review and revise its policies with regard to the digital tuner requirements and make necessary changes given important data provided by the CEA/CERC,” Harris said. It said the CEA petition contained convincing evidence that the FCC 50% phase-in that began last July for 36” and larger receivers “has had an unintended consequence” -- consumers picking lower-cost receivers with NTSC tuners over the higher-priced models with digital ATSC tuning. Many retailers have said the interim 50% rule, effective July 1, 2005, for 25"-36” receivers “will create a similar retail environment of DTV,” Harris said. Comments in the FCC’s rulemaking (05-24) on the CEA/CERC petition are due Mon., replies May 2.