The possibility looms the change from analog signals to digital by local television stations will not happen Feb. 17. There are concerns many Americans will not have made the proper preparations to be ready for the deadline.

For now, local television stations are moving ahead as if the Feb. 17 date will not change. There will be a test by local televisions at 7 p.m. Monday. They will broadcast in digital for five minutes. It is a way to check whether your TV sets, that aren't hooked to cable, are ready or whether you need to get a converter box.

The last time one of these test were held, KFSN (Channel 30) sent out the wrong signal. That confused a lot of people. Do yourself a favor. When you check your television Monday night, don't just look at one channel. Go through the local dial. If you are getting regular programming on the stations, then you know things are OK. Don't worry if one is wrong. This is an all or nothing transition.

These tests are good. But, I am betting the change won't happen Feb. 17. It may not happen in 2009.

This change has been sold to the American TV viewer as being a simple transition. It is for cable subscribers, The switch means nothing to them. The problem is that even with the coupons to help with the cost of converter box, this change is going to be a financial burden to a lot of low-income homes.

I expect someone to file a lawsuit in February to block the switch. It is certainly an easy argument to make that a home where the main provider only earns minimum wage can't pay the $20-$50 for a converter box per TV set.

And it just isn't the converter box. Many homes are going to need new antennas to pick up the signals. That's another cost.

There are plenty of benefits that will come with the switch. But the price is too heavy for many, especially at this time. Don't be shocked if you hear the switch has been delayed. But for now, check your TV sets Monday night.