Digital test on Channel 12 news at 6 p.m.

Not sure if you are going to need a converter box for the Feb. 17 transition to digital television?

Tonight might be a good night to find out.

During the 6 p.m. newscast on WWBT-Channel 12, and again during the 6:30 p.m. newscast on WUPV-Channel 65, the stations will broadcast a brief test. People who do need a converter box will see a message giving a number to call for more information. People who do not need a converter box will be able to continue to watch the news.

Across the country, stations have been having these tests and will continue to have them until the transition takes place. Both WTVR-Channel 6 and WRIC-Channel 8 held tests last week, station representatives said.

WWBT presents a special challenge, spokeswoman Paula Hersh said. The station currently broadcasts on digital Channel 54. However, when the transition takes place, the station will begin to broadcast on digital Channel 12. Digital tuners and converters will have to be rescanned at that time in order to pick up the station, Hersh said.

The transition is still scheduled for Feb. 17, although incoming president Barack Obama has suggested a delay. -- Daniel Neman