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Distress Signal Emitted By Flat-Screen TV

Posted by timothy on from the help-these-programs-are-awful dept.

pinqkandi writes "CNN is a running a story on an Oregon college student's flat-screen Toshiba TV which was releasing the 121.5 MHz international distress signal. He was unaware of the issue until local police, search and rescue, and civil air patrol members showed up at his apartment's door. Apparently the signal was strong enough to be picked up by satellite and then routed to the Air Force Rescue Center in Virginia. Quite impressive - luckily Toshiba is offering him a free replacement."

3 of 514 comments (clear)

  1. Fine? by renehollan · · Score: -1, Redundant
    From the article: Van Rossmann said he was told to keep his TV off to avoid paying a $10,000 fine for "willingly broadcasting a false distress signal."

    Personally, I think he should be able to leave the TV on as much as he wants, and Toshiba (the manufacturer) should be liable for the fine, until they replace the set.

    It's not like he modified the set, or purchased equipment designed to transmit an emergency signal, and abused it.

    But, that's just my view.

    --
    You could've hired me.
  2. Please guys... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0, Redundant

    ...stop trying to be funny. It's only getting lamer in here with every attempt. If this story had any potential, it doesn't now.

    Sorry, just telling it like it is.

  3. Re:Actually by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1, Redundant
    LOLOLLOLOLLllll Im`a MarX|5t 1iberal C0mm13!!

    Fox suxors compared 2 PRavda and C0mmunizt Newz Netwurk (CNN).., All hei| KKKerry , KKKennedy, and Nu Yuck Timez!!