DENVER -- Broadcasters across Colorado tested whether viewers are ready for the switch to digital television.

The Colorado Broadcasters Association sponsored tests on 18 television stations from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-10 p.m. Monday, during which times the stations simulated the end of analog broadcasting in windows of up to five minutes.

The nationwide switch from analog signals to digital will occur in exactly three months on Feb. 17.

TVs already equipped for digital transmissions did not experience interruption during the test. But viewers whose TVs aren't digital-ready saw a message warning them about their TV.

People who rely on antennas or rabbit ears may need a digital tuner.

Thousands of people called the hotline set up to answer questions Monday night.

Reginald Meadows, a Denver resident, saw the warning message on the television in his bedroom and called to ask what to do if his converter box coupons had expired.

"It's use it or lose it," said Rick Craddock, director of engineering at 7 News. "Our understanding is that's all you get."

For more information on the digital TV transition, visit our DTV Answers page.