HDTV Antenna

HDTV Antenna

By Anne Ahira

Let’s assume that you own an HDTV and it has a digital tuner built-in, you will be able to receive high definition programming without having to pay exorbitant monthly fees for subscription to a satellite or local cable mega-conglomerate.

This will also work to receive over the air broadcasts in high-def that are free if your HDTV is hooked up to an external high-def tuner. Thus, all you need now is to connect an HDTV antenna.

Be forewarned though, that even if you have all of the above, including the HDTV antenna, you will only receive the high def broadcasts from major networks, such as PBS, Fox, CBS, NBC and ABC, unless you are in an area where such broadcasts are severely blocked or you are too far away from a broadcast tower, but that is extremely rare.

Interestingly enough any reasonably priced indoor antenna should do as long as you are near a broadcast tower, and providing there is not too much interference from tall buildings, as an example. Thus, prior to purchasing an outdoor HDTV antenna, you might try an indoor model first!

Generally though you will need to purchase an outdoor HDTV antenna in order to get your entire local stations over the air without suffering dropouts. Putting such an antenna on the roof is best whether or not you live in a house or even an apartment.

Should you encounter problems from a landlord or board, be aware that the FCC has created an “Over-the-Air Reception Devices Rule” that should help you overcome any such prohibitions against installation of an HDTV antenna.

Chances are very good that your HDTV combined with an antenna will be all that you need. This is because since March 2007, all HDTVs sold since then had to include built-in ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) tuners.

If you live near to a broadcast tower even the old fashioned rabbit ears may even work along with your HDTV. So, if you still have one of those with the UHF/VHF capabilities, you may wish to try it out before you bother purchasing a dedicated HD antenna.

Your next step would be to locate the nearest HDTV transmission tower. You can find this out by using the Internet, usually as simple as typing in your zip code.

You may need a friend though who will read out the signal strength meter that comes with your HDTV receiver so that you can position as well as align the HDTV antenna perfectly on your roof. Through trial and error you should finally receive the best signal and your HDTV will receive crystal clear viewing.

Finally, before you purchase your HDTV antenna, you might also speak with your neighbors who have an antenna on their roof. This will let you know how happy they are with their new antenna and how clearly the signal comes in.

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