Much work went into the Emergency Alert System test to make a reality
the first national test held November 9.

Between broadcasters and the government, this was one of the best
examples of public/private partnership.

On November 29, twenty days later, the Federal Emergency Management
Agency held a conference call attended by over 900 participants
nationwide. These notes are part of that call.

Calling it a learning experience for all, participants heard an
explanation of the cause of varying performance during the test.

For the most part, broadcasters received the message and rebroadcast it.
Technical difficulties were discussed as a reason the test did not
work but broadcasters were quick to report the test was over 70%
successful.

Hardware failures were the primary reason given for the
"failure" of the test. Those issues can be expected regardless of who
does the test. What worked Monday, may fail Tuesday.
Speaking of the next test, it was noted that the next test will reveal
a new set of problems.

One can read more about the Conference Call.

Did you hear the EAS Test? Are you happy that broadcasters and the
government is working together to "fix things"?