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Digital TV
Digital Television (DTV) is an advanced broadcasting technology that will transform your television viewing experience. DTV enables broadcasters to offer television with better picture and sound quality. It can also offer multiple programming choices, called multicasting, and interactive capabilities. Important Links
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Digital Television Facts At A Glance
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Analog
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DTV
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HDTV
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| Date for final transition to digital is June 12, 2009. After that date, full-power stations will only broadcast digital signals. | Digital cable or digital satellite does not mean a program is in high-definition. | High-definition broadcasts offered. |
| Consumers will always be able to connect an inexpensive receiver, a digital to analog converter box, to their existing analog TV to decode DTV broadcast signals. | Digital pictures will be free from the "ghosts" and "snow" that can affect analog transmissions. | Best available picture resolution, clarity and color. |
| Digital to analog converter boxes will not convert your analog TV to high-definition. | Multicasting and data streaming is available. | Dolby surround-sound. |
| Analog TVs will continue to work with cable, satellite, VCRs, DVD players, camcorders, video games consoles and other devices for many years. | HDTV is available. | Wide screen "movie-like" format. |
What Is Scanning?
When you first set up your digital TV or converter box, you must take steps to find the digital channels in your area. This process is called "scanning" or "searching for channels."
When Do I Rescan?
Sometimes digital channels will change frequencies. Digital TVs and converter boxes will retain old channel locations until they are rescanned, so you must go through the scanning process again to update your TV or converter box with the new channel locations.
How To Rescan
How to Scan for Channels with Common DTV Converter Boxes
• Every converter box and every digital TV needs an initial scan for channels when first set up.
• Everyone with a TV connected to an antenna needs to rescan the first time the TV is turned on after the digital switch during the day on June 12. Some frequencies change on that day, and a digital tuner will retain out-of-date channel locations until it is rescanned.
• Both converter boxes and digital TVs need to be rescanned. Analog TVs themselves do NOT need to be scanned or rescanned, just the converter boxes connected to them.
• Any time a digital station previously received is lost; you must rescan!
• Scanning is simple. TVs and boxes are pre-programmed to do it when told.
• Once the process has begun, don't press any buttons until the screen says the scan is complete.
• Consult the owner's manual for your TV or converter box. The up/down and left/right buttons move you through the on-screen menu. Below are simple scanning directions for the most common converter boxes. Please refer to your owners manual for more detailed information or if need help.
Fix Reception Problems
Small adjustments to your antenna can make a big difference in the number of digital channels you can receive. If you have an indoor antenna, try elevating it and moving it closer to an exterior wall of your home. After adjusting your antenna, perform another channel scan to see if your reception is improved.
While adjusting your antenna, it may be helpful to access the "signal strength meter" on your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television to determine whether your adjustments are improving the signals' strength. The signal strength meter is usually accessed through the menu feature on your remote control. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for detailed instructions on how to access its signal strength meter. Remember to do another channel scan after you have adjusted your antenna.
Television stations broadcasting in digital use both the VHF band (channels 2-13) and UHF band (channels 14-51). Many indoor antennas use "rabbit ears" for the VHF band and a "loop" or "bow-tie" antenna for the UHF band. Make sure you are using an antenna that covers both the VHF and UHF bands and have connected it properly.
Digital FAQ
Your analog TV set will not be obsolete once the transition to DTV is completed, but there are some steps you must take to be able to continue to use it. To ensure continued use of your analog set, you must do one of the following:
• Use a digital-to-analog converter box.
• Connect to a subscription service such as cable or satellite TV.
In addition, analog sets should continue to work with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, and similar products that you use now.
This converter box, much like your cable box, will allow you to receive a picture, but it won't be able to show high-definition pictures or give you access to other digital services.
Analog TV sets will need additional equipment to receive over-the-air television when the DTV Transition is completed. All broadcast TV stations in the country have temporary use of a second, separate channel so that they can transition from analog broadcasting to digital.
Congress has set June 12, 2009 as the final deadline for terminating analog broadcasts. Under the law, on February 17, some full-power broadcast television stations in the United States have already stopped broadcasting on analog airwaves and have begun broadcasting only in digital. The remaining stations will stop broadcasting analog sometime between April 16 and June 12. Analog sets equipped with a converter box will display the digital broadcasts, but not in full digital quality.
• Use a digital-to-analog converter box.
• Connect to a subscription service such as cable or satellite TV.
In addition, analog sets should continue to work with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, and similar products that you use now.
This converter box, much like your cable box, will allow you to receive a picture, but it won't be able to show high-definition pictures or give you access to other digital services.
Analog TV sets will need additional equipment to receive over-the-air television when the DTV Transition is completed. All broadcast TV stations in the country have temporary use of a second, separate channel so that they can transition from analog broadcasting to digital.
Congress has set June 12, 2009 as the final deadline for terminating analog broadcasts. Under the law, on February 17, some full-power broadcast television stations in the United States have already stopped broadcasting on analog airwaves and have begun broadcasting only in digital. The remaining stations will stop broadcasting analog sometime between April 16 and June 12. Analog sets equipped with a converter box will display the digital broadcasts, but not in full digital quality.
Yes. Television stations broadcasting in digital use both the VHF (channels 2-13) and UHF (channels 14-51) bands. Many indoor antennas use "rabbit ears" for the VHF band and a "loop" or "bow-tie" antenna for the UHF band.
* Make sure you are using an antenna that covers both the VHF and UHF bands and have connected it properly. Many antennas currently being sold as "HDTV Antennas," perform best at receiving UHF signals; some of these models state that they provide reception of signals on channels 7-13 but actually perform less well receiving those channels. When acquiring a new antenna, be sure to talk to retail consultants and look at information on the packaging and/or the Internet to make sure that any new antenna you may choose provides good reception of both VHF and UHF channels. In addition, if you use an indoor antenna and receive signals on VHF channels, you may need to use an antenna with amplification.
Does the DTV Transition Affect TV Sets That Are Connected to Cable Services?
No. If you subscribe to cable service, the DTV transition should not affect any TV sets that are connected to your cable services. The DTV transition applies only to full-power broadcast television stations – stations that use the public airwaves to transmit their programming to viewers through a broadcast antenna.
How Do I Improve DTV Signal Strength?
Your DTV reception can be affected by terrain, trees, buildings, the weather, damaged equipment, as well as antenna type, location, and orientation. It can be improved just by changing the location of the antenna you're using now. Moving your antenna away from other objects and structures, or placing it higher, can often improve reception. The performance of outdoor antennas can degrade over time due to exposure to the weather. Also, you may consider installing a signal booster, which should improve reception. If you are having trouble receiving a broadcast:
* Check your connections.
* Perform a channel scan.
* Adjust your antenna.
The FCC Consumer Facts sheet "Troubleshooting Guide For Digital-to-Analog Converter Boxes and Digital Televisions" should help you diagnosis and correct your problem.
* Make sure you are using an antenna that covers both the VHF and UHF bands and have connected it properly. Many antennas currently being sold as "HDTV Antennas," perform best at receiving UHF signals; some of these models state that they provide reception of signals on channels 7-13 but actually perform less well receiving those channels. When acquiring a new antenna, be sure to talk to retail consultants and look at information on the packaging and/or the Internet to make sure that any new antenna you may choose provides good reception of both VHF and UHF channels. In addition, if you use an indoor antenna and receive signals on VHF channels, you may need to use an antenna with amplification.
Does the DTV Transition Affect TV Sets That Are Connected to Cable Services?
No. If you subscribe to cable service, the DTV transition should not affect any TV sets that are connected to your cable services. The DTV transition applies only to full-power broadcast television stations – stations that use the public airwaves to transmit their programming to viewers through a broadcast antenna.
How Do I Improve DTV Signal Strength?
Your DTV reception can be affected by terrain, trees, buildings, the weather, damaged equipment, as well as antenna type, location, and orientation. It can be improved just by changing the location of the antenna you're using now. Moving your antenna away from other objects and structures, or placing it higher, can often improve reception. The performance of outdoor antennas can degrade over time due to exposure to the weather. Also, you may consider installing a signal booster, which should improve reception. If you are having trouble receiving a broadcast:
* Check your connections.
* Perform a channel scan.
* Adjust your antenna.
The FCC Consumer Facts sheet "Troubleshooting Guide For Digital-to-Analog Converter Boxes and Digital Televisions" should help you diagnosis and correct your problem.
Your DTV reception can be affected by nearby moving vehicles, such as cars, trucks, trains and airplanes. In some instances, shadowing or reflections from these vehicles may cause your digital picture to temporarily break-up or even disappear completely. If this occurs, you should try moving or reorienting your antenna to find a position that provides the most reliable reception. If you are using an indoor antenna, switching to an outdoor antenna system which may include a directional antenna or rotor could improve reception. In severe cases it may not be possible to completely eliminate the effect of nearby traffic. If reception remains unsatisfactory due to these disruptions, viewers may wish to consider alternatives such as cable or satellite service.
Your DTV reception can also be affected by severe weather conditions such as storms and high winds. These reception issues can result from fluctuations in the broadcast signal that can be caused, for example, by moving leaves and branches on trees. You can minimize the effects of high winds or storms by re-orienting your antenna to obtain the strongest available signal. If this does not work, a better indoor antenna or an outdoor antenna may help. In addition, make sure that outdoor antenna mounts are secure to minimize any movement caused by the wind. If you lose reception of a particular channel during severe weather conditions try tuning to other channels that remain available for weather advisory information or alerts. In cases where no TV stations can be received, you should tune to a local AM or FM station or any other available media for weather alerts.
The digital television (DTV) transition refers to the requirement that all full-power television broadcast stations stop broadcasting in analog format and broadcast only in digital format by June 12, 2009. Your local broadcasters may make the transition before then, and some already have. So be ready. Apply for the $40 converter box coupon today. Get your converter box, and enjoy the benefits of digital television now.
If you are having difficulty receiving digital broadcast stations in your area, this troubleshooting guide provides a connections checklist and tips on reception of digital signals.
Use an Antenna that Provides Good Reception of All Channels
• Most existing antennas used by consumers will provide good reception of DTV signals. (Before making any changes, try your existing antenna first to see of it allows you to receive all the stations you normally watch.)
• For watching DTV signals, you will need an antenna that provides good reception of both VHF signals (channels 2-13) and UHF signals (channels 14-51) to reliably receive all of the digital signals broadcast in your area.
• Many antennas are designed only for reception of either VHF or UHF signals (but not both). For example, the commonly used "rabbit ears" indoor antenna is only suitable for receiving VHF signals. To receive UHF signals, an indoor antenna should also include a wire loop or other feature for reception in that band.
• The reception capabilities of TV antennas also vary considerably, so be sure to talk to retail consultants and look at information on the packaging and/or the Internet to make sure that any new antenna you may choose provides good reception of both VHF and UHF channels. In addition, if you use an indoor antenna and receive signals on VHF channels, you may need to use an antenna with amplification.
• Many antennas currently being sold as "HDTV Antennas," perform best at receiving UHF signals; some of these models state that they provide reception of signals on channels 7-13 but actually perform less well receiving those channels. If you obtain one of these antennas, be sure it provides good reception of all the VHF channels as well as the UHF channels.
• To check for the DTV signals that are available at your location, use the DTV Reception Maps available.
Check Your Connections
• Check that your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television is connected properly. Make sure your antenna is connected to the antenna input of your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television. If using a digital-to-analog converter box, also ensure that the antenna output of your converter box is connected to the antenna input of your analog TV. Refer to the owner's manuals of your components if you are unsure of the proper connections.
• Ensure that your components are plugged in and have their power turned on.
• If you have a digital-to-analog converter box, tune your analog TV to channel 3. You should see a set-up menu or picture displayed on your TV screen. If you do not see a set-up menu or picture, tune your TV to channel 4. If you still do not see a set-up menu or picture, recheck your connections.
Perform a Channel Scan
• Digital-to-analog converter boxes and digital televisions have a button, usually on the remote control, that is labeled "set-up" or "menu" or some similar term. Press that button to access the set-up menu. Using the directional arrow buttons on your remote, scroll to the option that allows you to perform a "channel scan." The channel scan will automatically search for digital broadcast channels that are available in your area. Consult the owner's manual of your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television for detailed instructions on how to perform a channel scan for your device.
• Once the channel scan is complete, you will be able to tune to the digital channels received by your antenna. You should perform a channel scan periodically to check whether additional digital channels have become available.
Adjust Your Antenna
• Small adjustments to your antenna can make a big difference in the number of digital channels you can receive. If you have an indoor antenna, try elevating it and moving it closer to an exterior wall of your home. After adjusting your antenna, perform another channel scan to see if your reception is improved.
• While adjusting your antenna, it may be helpful to access the "signal strength meter" on your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television to determine whether your adjustments are improving the signals' strength. The signal strength meter is usually accessed through the menu feature on your remote control. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for detailed instructions on how to access its signal strength meter. Remember to do another channel scan after you have adjusted your antenna.
• Television stations broadcasting in digital use both the VHF band (channels 2-13) and UHF band (channels 14-51). Many indoor antennas use "rabbit ears" for the VHF band and a "loop" or "bow-tie" antenna for the UHF band. Make sure you are using an antenna that covers both the VHF and UHF bands and have connected it properly.
If You are Still Having Difficulty:
• When an analog TV signal is weak or receives interference, static, snow, and distortion will often appear on the screen. Digital broadcasting will provide a clear picture; however, if the signal falls below a certain minimum strength, the picture can disappear. This "cliff effect" means that if you watch analog TV stations that have static and distortion, you may have to adjust or upgrade your antenna system.
• Simple indoor antennas provide minimal performance that may not be suitable for your location. If you are unable to obtain satisfactory DTV reception with your current indoor antenna, you may wish to obtain an indoor antenna that includes features for better reception of UHF signals, as well as VHF, and/or an amplifier to boost the received signal (often referred to as an active indoor antenna).
• Generally, an outdoor antenna will get better reception than an indoor antenna. However, the performance of outdoor antennas can degrade over time due to exposure to the weather. If you are having problems, check for loose or corroded wiring, broken antenna elements and that the antenna is pointed in the right direction.
• Try to keep the length of wire between your antenna and digital-to-analog converter box or digital television as short as possible for best reception.
• "Splitters" that are used to connect a single antenna to multiple digital-to-analog converter boxes or digital televisions reduce the amount of signal available to each device. If you are having problems, check whether reception is improved without the splitter. In some cases an "active" splitter that includes an amplifier can solve the problem.
• If you are near a station's broadcast tower, reception of that station, as well as other stations, can be impeded by strong signal "overload." Consider using an "attenuator" or removing amplifiers to improve your reception.
• If you decide to replace or upgrade your indoor or outdoor antenna, many types are available from electronics retail stores at a variety of prices. Websites such as www.antennaweb.org provide information on the locations of broadcast towers and the types of outdoor antennas appropriate for the stations you wish to receive. If you need assistance with upgrading your antenna system, check with a local antenna retailer or antenna installer.
• To check for the DTV signals that are available at your location, use the DTV Reception Maps available at www.fcc.gov/mb/engineering/maps.
What are the basic rules for TV signal reception?
1. Outdoor is generally better. Outdoor antennas have a better view of the transmitting station, with no building-induced signal loss. They receive less interference from other household electronic/electrical appliances, and they are less likely to receive reflected ghost signals from the building structure.
2. Higher is better. The higher an antenna is, the more direct signal it can receive from the TV transmitter, while at the same time reducing the reception of interfering signals from other household electronic/electrical appliances and reflected ghost-causing signals from other nearby structures. The higher the better, but any antenna should be at least four feet above the structure to which it is mounted, and ideally above the roofline.
3. Closer is better. If a position above the roofline is not possible, the antenna should at least be on the side of your building facing the TV signal broadcast tower.
4. Bigger is better. The larger an antenna, the more signal it receives. This is especially important on channels 2-6, where the longer wavelength requires a larger antenna in order to be efficiently received. Larger antennas also become directional which reduces ghosting caused by reflected signals coming from the side and the rear of the receiving antenna.
Once the type of antenna you need is selected, careful attention must be paid to its installation. While not difficult to install, antennas are sensitive to installation details. For wood-frame buildings where the antenna will be situated on the roof's peak, the antenna should be at least four feet above the peak. When installed above a flat metal roof, the antenna should be at least ten feet above the roof. For multidirectional antennas, allow for some mounting flexibility so that the antenna can be moved a few feet in each direction in order to obtain the best picture on all channels before a permanent mounting position is selected.
Your DTV reception can also be affected by severe weather conditions such as storms and high winds. These reception issues can result from fluctuations in the broadcast signal that can be caused, for example, by moving leaves and branches on trees. You can minimize the effects of high winds or storms by re-orienting your antenna to obtain the strongest available signal. If this does not work, a better indoor antenna or an outdoor antenna may help. In addition, make sure that outdoor antenna mounts are secure to minimize any movement caused by the wind. If you lose reception of a particular channel during severe weather conditions try tuning to other channels that remain available for weather advisory information or alerts. In cases where no TV stations can be received, you should tune to a local AM or FM station or any other available media for weather alerts.
The digital television (DTV) transition refers to the requirement that all full-power television broadcast stations stop broadcasting in analog format and broadcast only in digital format by June 12, 2009. Your local broadcasters may make the transition before then, and some already have. So be ready. Apply for the $40 converter box coupon today. Get your converter box, and enjoy the benefits of digital television now.
If you are having difficulty receiving digital broadcast stations in your area, this troubleshooting guide provides a connections checklist and tips on reception of digital signals.
Use an Antenna that Provides Good Reception of All Channels
• Most existing antennas used by consumers will provide good reception of DTV signals. (Before making any changes, try your existing antenna first to see of it allows you to receive all the stations you normally watch.)
• For watching DTV signals, you will need an antenna that provides good reception of both VHF signals (channels 2-13) and UHF signals (channels 14-51) to reliably receive all of the digital signals broadcast in your area.
• Many antennas are designed only for reception of either VHF or UHF signals (but not both). For example, the commonly used "rabbit ears" indoor antenna is only suitable for receiving VHF signals. To receive UHF signals, an indoor antenna should also include a wire loop or other feature for reception in that band.
• The reception capabilities of TV antennas also vary considerably, so be sure to talk to retail consultants and look at information on the packaging and/or the Internet to make sure that any new antenna you may choose provides good reception of both VHF and UHF channels. In addition, if you use an indoor antenna and receive signals on VHF channels, you may need to use an antenna with amplification.
• Many antennas currently being sold as "HDTV Antennas," perform best at receiving UHF signals; some of these models state that they provide reception of signals on channels 7-13 but actually perform less well receiving those channels. If you obtain one of these antennas, be sure it provides good reception of all the VHF channels as well as the UHF channels.
• To check for the DTV signals that are available at your location, use the DTV Reception Maps available.
Check Your Connections
• Check that your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television is connected properly. Make sure your antenna is connected to the antenna input of your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television. If using a digital-to-analog converter box, also ensure that the antenna output of your converter box is connected to the antenna input of your analog TV. Refer to the owner's manuals of your components if you are unsure of the proper connections.
• Ensure that your components are plugged in and have their power turned on.
• If you have a digital-to-analog converter box, tune your analog TV to channel 3. You should see a set-up menu or picture displayed on your TV screen. If you do not see a set-up menu or picture, tune your TV to channel 4. If you still do not see a set-up menu or picture, recheck your connections.
Perform a Channel Scan
• Digital-to-analog converter boxes and digital televisions have a button, usually on the remote control, that is labeled "set-up" or "menu" or some similar term. Press that button to access the set-up menu. Using the directional arrow buttons on your remote, scroll to the option that allows you to perform a "channel scan." The channel scan will automatically search for digital broadcast channels that are available in your area. Consult the owner's manual of your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television for detailed instructions on how to perform a channel scan for your device.
• Once the channel scan is complete, you will be able to tune to the digital channels received by your antenna. You should perform a channel scan periodically to check whether additional digital channels have become available.
Adjust Your Antenna
• Small adjustments to your antenna can make a big difference in the number of digital channels you can receive. If you have an indoor antenna, try elevating it and moving it closer to an exterior wall of your home. After adjusting your antenna, perform another channel scan to see if your reception is improved.
• While adjusting your antenna, it may be helpful to access the "signal strength meter" on your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television to determine whether your adjustments are improving the signals' strength. The signal strength meter is usually accessed through the menu feature on your remote control. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for detailed instructions on how to access its signal strength meter. Remember to do another channel scan after you have adjusted your antenna.
• Television stations broadcasting in digital use both the VHF band (channels 2-13) and UHF band (channels 14-51). Many indoor antennas use "rabbit ears" for the VHF band and a "loop" or "bow-tie" antenna for the UHF band. Make sure you are using an antenna that covers both the VHF and UHF bands and have connected it properly.
If You are Still Having Difficulty:
• When an analog TV signal is weak or receives interference, static, snow, and distortion will often appear on the screen. Digital broadcasting will provide a clear picture; however, if the signal falls below a certain minimum strength, the picture can disappear. This "cliff effect" means that if you watch analog TV stations that have static and distortion, you may have to adjust or upgrade your antenna system.
• Simple indoor antennas provide minimal performance that may not be suitable for your location. If you are unable to obtain satisfactory DTV reception with your current indoor antenna, you may wish to obtain an indoor antenna that includes features for better reception of UHF signals, as well as VHF, and/or an amplifier to boost the received signal (often referred to as an active indoor antenna).
• Generally, an outdoor antenna will get better reception than an indoor antenna. However, the performance of outdoor antennas can degrade over time due to exposure to the weather. If you are having problems, check for loose or corroded wiring, broken antenna elements and that the antenna is pointed in the right direction.
• Try to keep the length of wire between your antenna and digital-to-analog converter box or digital television as short as possible for best reception.
• "Splitters" that are used to connect a single antenna to multiple digital-to-analog converter boxes or digital televisions reduce the amount of signal available to each device. If you are having problems, check whether reception is improved without the splitter. In some cases an "active" splitter that includes an amplifier can solve the problem.
• If you are near a station's broadcast tower, reception of that station, as well as other stations, can be impeded by strong signal "overload." Consider using an "attenuator" or removing amplifiers to improve your reception.
• If you decide to replace or upgrade your indoor or outdoor antenna, many types are available from electronics retail stores at a variety of prices. Websites such as www.antennaweb.org provide information on the locations of broadcast towers and the types of outdoor antennas appropriate for the stations you wish to receive. If you need assistance with upgrading your antenna system, check with a local antenna retailer or antenna installer.
• To check for the DTV signals that are available at your location, use the DTV Reception Maps available at www.fcc.gov/mb/engineering/maps.
What are the basic rules for TV signal reception?
1. Outdoor is generally better. Outdoor antennas have a better view of the transmitting station, with no building-induced signal loss. They receive less interference from other household electronic/electrical appliances, and they are less likely to receive reflected ghost signals from the building structure.
2. Higher is better. The higher an antenna is, the more direct signal it can receive from the TV transmitter, while at the same time reducing the reception of interfering signals from other household electronic/electrical appliances and reflected ghost-causing signals from other nearby structures. The higher the better, but any antenna should be at least four feet above the structure to which it is mounted, and ideally above the roofline.
3. Closer is better. If a position above the roofline is not possible, the antenna should at least be on the side of your building facing the TV signal broadcast tower.
4. Bigger is better. The larger an antenna, the more signal it receives. This is especially important on channels 2-6, where the longer wavelength requires a larger antenna in order to be efficiently received. Larger antennas also become directional which reduces ghosting caused by reflected signals coming from the side and the rear of the receiving antenna.
Once the type of antenna you need is selected, careful attention must be paid to its installation. While not difficult to install, antennas are sensitive to installation details. For wood-frame buildings where the antenna will be situated on the roof's peak, the antenna should be at least four feet above the peak. When installed above a flat metal roof, the antenna should be at least ten feet above the roof. For multidirectional antennas, allow for some mounting flexibility so that the antenna can be moved a few feet in each direction in order to obtain the best picture on all channels before a permanent mounting position is selected.
No, unfortunately, we are not able to provide assistance with installation of specific models of antennas. If you need assistance with installing an antenna, we recommend contacting your local retailer or installer.
Generally, antennas do not perform optimally in an attic. Even when an antenna will perform well outdoors, reception of TV signals in an attic can be made very difficult by interference from other electrical devices. The building's construction can also hinder the entrance of the TV signal or cause reflection of the signal, which leads to ghosting. Depending on building construction, you can expect to lose at least 30% of the signal. In a house with aluminum siding, signal loss could be 100%. Outdoor installation is always best.
An amplified antenna can improve a TV set's tuner performance, especially if the antenna is used indoors. Amplified antennas used in yellow color code areas should always be rated for use in these areas. This guarantees that the amplified antenna will not overload the signal. Building construction techniques can seriously reduce the amount of signal that reaches the interior of the building in a yellow color code area, making an amplifier a useful tool.
In dark green color code areas, amplified antennas are highly desirable in order to preserve as much of the received signal as possible, especially when distributing the signal to a VCR and a TV. Also, this can provide some useful compensation for signal loss caused by building construction and position in the building.
In outlying areas a large directional antenna should be used, but this requires amplifiers and rooftop mounting in the blue and violet color code areas.
In dark green color code areas, amplified antennas are highly desirable in order to preserve as much of the received signal as possible, especially when distributing the signal to a VCR and a TV. Also, this can provide some useful compensation for signal loss caused by building construction and position in the building.
In outlying areas a large directional antenna should be used, but this requires amplifiers and rooftop mounting in the blue and violet color code areas.
Many structures can reflect TV signals much like they reflect light. This can lead to the TV receiver "seeing" more than one version of the TV signal. Ghosting results when a TV signal arrives at the receiver via more than one path. Low areas in a neighborhood are especially susceptible to ghosting.
If ghosting is caused by a single structure that creates one distinct ghost image, a medium or large multi-directional antenna may be useful with careful positioning to eliminate the reflected signal. However, the antenna may require different positioning for each channel.
Directional antennas are the most ghost-resistant antennas since they "see" in only one direction and have a tendency not to see the reflected ghost signal. The further away from structures the antenna is located the less likely a problem will occur. Many factors, however, such as the structure's total surface area, the direction it faces, and neighborhood terrain, will influence how much effect the structure will have on TV reception.
If ghosting is caused by a single structure that creates one distinct ghost image, a medium or large multi-directional antenna may be useful with careful positioning to eliminate the reflected signal. However, the antenna may require different positioning for each channel.
Directional antennas are the most ghost-resistant antennas since they "see" in only one direction and have a tendency not to see the reflected ghost signal. The further away from structures the antenna is located the less likely a problem will occur. Many factors, however, such as the structure's total surface area, the direction it faces, and neighborhood terrain, will influence how much effect the structure will have on TV reception.
Nearby buildings that are higher than the TV antenna or block the antenna's view in the direction of the TV station's transmitter such as:
• Church steeples
• Apartment/condominium buildings
• School buildings
• Water towers
• Industrial buildings
• Office buildings
• Warehouses
• Large communications/radio/TV towers
• Athletic field lighting towers
• High tension power lines and towers
• Church steeples
• Apartment/condominium buildings
• School buildings
• Water towers
• Industrial buildings
• Office buildings
• Warehouses
• Large communications/radio/TV towers
• Athletic field lighting towers
• High tension power lines and towers
Trees and foliage aren't usually a problem, but in some cases foliage can absorb TV signals and reduce their strength. Therefore, the best antenna locations should avoid foliage in the direction of the TV transmitter. The following usually do not cause ghosting:
• Other homes and wooden buildings that aren't taller than antenna location
• Streetlight or utility poles
• Cellular or PCS poles consisting of a single pole no higher than treetops
• Ham radio antennas
• Other TV antennas
• Other homes and wooden buildings that aren't taller than antenna location
• Streetlight or utility poles
• Cellular or PCS poles consisting of a single pole no higher than treetops
• Ham radio antennas
• Other TV antennas
High-rise buildings can cause a severe ghosting environment. While most of these cases can be solved by suitable directional antenna selection, there are a few cases where an antenna may not provide workable reception.
Generally, in very rural areas the signal is too weak. A professionally installed tall tower, satellite-delivered network stations or lifeline cable is recommended in these cases.
On occasion, some households may find that the recommended antenna type does not provide a suitable picture. This may be due to placement or installation of the antenna, obstacles local to a particular household which interfere with reception, or other issues. While most of these cases can be solved by a suitable directional antenna, there are a few cases where an antenna may not provide workable reception. Distant, outlying areas in very rural locations may not receive a strong enough signal to provide an adequate picture.
Generally, in very rural areas the signal is too weak. A professionally installed tall tower, satellite-delivered network stations or lifeline cable is recommended in these cases.
On occasion, some households may find that the recommended antenna type does not provide a suitable picture. This may be due to placement or installation of the antenna, obstacles local to a particular household which interfere with reception, or other issues. While most of these cases can be solved by a suitable directional antenna, there are a few cases where an antenna may not provide workable reception. Distant, outlying areas in very rural locations may not receive a strong enough signal to provide an adequate picture.
No, all TV antennas do not pick up all stations. There are several different types of antennas. Which type of antenna is right for you will depend on what signals are available in your area and which ones you want to receive. Antennaweb.org is designed to suggest categories of antennas that will receive the stations predicted for your location.
As directed by Congress in Section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the Federal Communications Commission adopted the Over-the-Air Reception Device Rule concerning governmental and nongovernmental restrictions on viewers' ability to receive video programming signals from direct broadcast satellites ("DBS"), multichannel multipoint distribution (wireless cable) providers ("MMDS"), and television broadcast stations ("TVBS").
The rule is cited as 47 C.F.R. Section 1.4000 and has been in effect since October 14, 1996. It prohibits restrictions that impair the installation, maintenance or use of antennas used to receive video programming. The rule applies to video antennas including direct-to-home satellite dishes that are less than one meter (39.37") in diameter (or of any size in Alaska), TV antennas, and wireless cable antennas. The rule prohibits most restrictions that: (1) unreasonably delay or prevent installation, maintenance or use; (2) unreasonably increase the cost of installation, maintenance or use; or (3) preclude reception of an acceptable quality signal.
The rule applies to viewers who place video antennas on property that they own and that is within their exclusive use or control, including condominium owners and cooperative owners who have an area where they have exclusive use, such as balcony or patio, in which to install the antenna. The rule applies to townhomes and manufactured homes, as well as to single-family homes.
The rule allows local governments, community associations and landlords to enforce restrictions that do not impair, as well as restrictions needed for safety or historic preservation. In addition, the rule does not apply to common areas that are owned by a landlord, a community association, or jointly by condominium or cooperative owners. Therefore, restrictions on antennas installed in common areas are enforceable.
On November 20, 1998, the Commission amended the rule so that it will apply to rental property where the renter has exclusive use, such as a balcony or patio. The effective date of the amended rule is January 22, 1999.
The rule is cited as 47 C.F.R. Section 1.4000 and has been in effect since October 14, 1996. It prohibits restrictions that impair the installation, maintenance or use of antennas used to receive video programming. The rule applies to video antennas including direct-to-home satellite dishes that are less than one meter (39.37") in diameter (or of any size in Alaska), TV antennas, and wireless cable antennas. The rule prohibits most restrictions that: (1) unreasonably delay or prevent installation, maintenance or use; (2) unreasonably increase the cost of installation, maintenance or use; or (3) preclude reception of an acceptable quality signal.
The rule applies to viewers who place video antennas on property that they own and that is within their exclusive use or control, including condominium owners and cooperative owners who have an area where they have exclusive use, such as balcony or patio, in which to install the antenna. The rule applies to townhomes and manufactured homes, as well as to single-family homes.
The rule allows local governments, community associations and landlords to enforce restrictions that do not impair, as well as restrictions needed for safety or historic preservation. In addition, the rule does not apply to common areas that are owned by a landlord, a community association, or jointly by condominium or cooperative owners. Therefore, restrictions on antennas installed in common areas are enforceable.
On November 20, 1998, the Commission amended the rule so that it will apply to rental property where the renter has exclusive use, such as a balcony or patio. The effective date of the amended rule is January 22, 1999.
Unfortunately, we are also unable to assist with specific installation or troubleshooting questions regarding HD receivers. Again, we recommend contacting the manufacturer or the retailer from whom you purchased the receiver.
DTV is the umbrella term used to describe the digital television system adopted by the FCC in December 1996. HDTV is a type of DTV service. HDTV provides high resolution programming in a widescreen format. A current analog TV picture can provide resolution of up to 480 horizontal lines. An HDTV picture can provide resolution of up to 1080 lines, providing improved picture detail. Aspect ratio is a comparison of screen width to screen height. Analog TV has an aspect ratio of 4 by 3, which means the screen is 4 inches wide for every 3 inches high. Widescreen HDTV format has an aspect ratio of 16 by 9. HDTV programs include Dolby digital surround sound, similar to the sound used in movie theaters and on DVDs.
When a station is not broadcasting in HDTV, it can provide multiple Standard DTV channels in digital, a process called multicasting. This means that a station can transmit multiple channels in the same bandwidth instead of just one.
The phenomenon you're observing is related to PSIP channel mapping. PSIP stands for Program and System Information Protocol (PSIP) channel information. PSIP is data that is transmitted along with a station's DTV signal that tells DTV receivers important information about the station and what is being broadcast (what channel to tune to for reception of the station, helps maintain current (analog) channel number branding, tells the receiver whether multiple programs are being broadcast, etc.).
Currently, the vast majority of TV stations broadcasting in digital are using UHF (14 and up) channels to do so. This is not due to any technical requirement of digital broadcasting, however. It is mostly because the UHF channels were more likely to be available in most markets. Eventually, after the digital transition is complete and TV stations no longer need to broadcast in analog, they may switch and use their current analog VHF channels for digital instead. Antennas that receive UHF stations only and ones that receive both VHF and UHF are available. If you are fairly certain you won't want to get any lower channels in the VHF 2-13 range, you could purchase one that is UHF only.
The Very High Frequency (VHF) band is the segment of the television broadcast band covering channels 2 through 13. The Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band is the segment of the television broadcast band covering channels 14 through 83.