Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ)
Answers to common questions about getting over the air television broadcast including reception, antennas, installation, HD and NextGen TV.
What is Broadcast Television ?
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It is the transmission of TV signals over public air waves free for anyone to receive. Television started becoming widespread in 1947 and used an analog format.
In 2009 all TV broadcast switched to a digital format (DTv).
How much does broadcast TV cost ?
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Nothing. Broadcast TV is and always has been free for anyone to receive.
What do I need to watch free broadcast TV ?
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All you need is an antenna, and a digital television that has a digital tuner (most do). You can also use a stand alone Digital TV Tuner connected to your computer or router to watch free TV on your home network devices. Analog TV's required a Digital to Analog Converter, sometimes called a digital converter.
How many channels are available ?
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It depends on where you live. Over 100 TV channels are available near large cities, over 70 channels near mid size cities, and over 30 channels near small cities See Tower Locater.
What is NextGen 4k UHD TV ?
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A NextGen 4k UHD broadcast has 2 to 3 times higher resolution than HD TV (see Television Specifications.). It also has enhanced audio and better reception. Some UHD broadcast have an optional internet connection for additional content in real time. A few UHD broadcast are encrypted (
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for Content Protection. The number of UHD broadcast is small and not growing very fast. Many TV stations that broadcast a UHD signal also simulcast an HD signal for HD televisions.
Can my HD television get NextGen 4k UHD broadcast ?
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No, a NextGen 4k UHD television is required.
How does the picture compare to cable or satellite TV ?
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Broadcast TV picture quality is as good as or better than cable or satellite. Cable and satellite operators often compress channels. The compression reduces picture quality compared to over-the-air broadcast. Compressing signals opens up more bandwidth and allows providers to squeeze in more channels nobody watches.
What's the difference between an analog and digital antenna ?
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Nothing, except the name. Digital and analog TV signals both use the same carrier frequencies, carrier modulation (digital or analog signal) does not effect antenna reception.
What type of antenna do I need ?
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An indoor antenna usually works for broadcast towers within 20 or 25 miles. Many indoor antennas come with a preamp to improve reception.
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An attic or outdoor antenna is usually needed for stations greater than 25 miles, or unavoidable loss factors from terrain or obstructions.
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Also see;
Does an attic antenna need to be grounded ?
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No.
However, cable runs over 30 feet are sometimes grounded to reduce possible static build up.
Does an outside antenna need to be grounded ?
If I need an amplifier, what should I use ?
- Weak Signals -- use a low noise Preamp
- Long Cable Runs -- use a Booster Amp
- Signal Splitter Loss -- use a Distribution Amp
Also see Amplifiers.
Do cables effect reception ?
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Yes, the longer the cable the greater the signal loss. Additionally, signal splitters cut the signal strength in half, or more. Long cable runs, and especially signal splitters, can mean the difference between getting and not getting a channel. See TV Coax Cables and Signal Loss.
What are the frequencies of broadcast TV ?
OTA DTv
Frequently Asked Questions
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