RCN's Two-Step Digital Plan.

Overbuilder RCN is on a mission to beat traditional cable operators in an all-digital race. RCN's strategy has two parts: All its systems will simulcast analog expanded basic channels in digital this year, and all channels will convert to digital next year.

At least three RCN markets--Chicago, New York and Boston--will have full digital simulcast by the end of March. Chicago has already completed its digital conversion. RCN customers will receive new Motorola DCT-700 set-top boxes, able to handle simulcasting now and all-di