KGMB9, the CBS affiliate, will flip the switch early and simulate an analog shutdown for 10 seconds during three of its newscasts Monday — at 5, 6 and 10 p.m.

The test is designed to eliminate confusion about the upcoming Digital Television (DTV) transition set for midnight Feb. 17, 2009, as mandated by the Federal Communications Commission.

The test and the upcoming transition will not affect homes already aligned with cable, but the brief trial balloon may disrupt service for over-the-air viewers who do not yet have a digital-to-analog converter box or a new digital TV set.

The simulation will be explained by on-air anchors that if they don't lose their signal, they are prepared for the transition. Those who see static should make plans to acquire a converter box or buy a new digital TV set.

Details: www.kgmb.com, search for DTV.