Television station KGMB said it will briefly simulate an analog shutdown during its 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts today.

The 10-second test is designed to show viewers what will happen at midnight Feb. 17, 2009, when full-powered television stations across the country are required by the Federal Communications Commission to cease broadcasting in analog and switch to a digital signal.

Today's test and next year's transition to digital broadcasts will not affect viewers who watch television via cable. It only will disrupt service for over-the-air viewers who do not have a digital-to-analog converter box or a new digital television set.

The simulated blackouts will begin during today's 5 p.m. newscast. KGMB will repeat the test at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. During each simulation, KGMB news anchors will explain to viewers that if the don't lose their signals after the switch they have nothing to worry about come February 2009. Those who see static, however, should act now to make their televisions digital-ready.