Writers are demanding an increase in the fees they receive when their work is reproduced on DVDs, the internet, mobile phones and other electronic devices.

Producers reject their demands as unworkable.

'DVD roadblock'

The AMPTP said no progress was possible "for overriding business reasons" as long as writers insisted on increasing royalties from DVD sales.

"We are ready to meet at any time and remain committed to reaching a fair and reasonable deal that keeps the industry working, but the DVD issue is a roadblock to these negotiations," said J Nicholas Counter, the AMPTP's president, added.

The effects of any strike would not be felt immediately, our correspondent says.

In fact it could be months before the TV networks run out of programmes that have already been made.

But if the dispute drags on, Hollywood analysts expect the supply of shows such as Desperate Housewives, Ugly Betty and CSI to fizzle out by next spring.

Many writers fear the TV networks will simply turn to more repeats and reality programmes to fill the gap left by scripted shows.