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The big switch to digital television may motivate you to replace your antenna. Check here for antenna options for your television:
By now I’m sure you have heard all the hype about television stations converting their transmitting signals to a digital format. This switch was originally going to take place back in 2006. However, Congress realized the public wasn’t ready and extended the deadline. The new date for this big switch is now set for February 17. The House will re-vote on a bill that may extend the deadline until June 12. Nevertheless, DTV is coming and many stations are going ahead with pulling the plug on their analog signals anyway.
Wow! That’s less than two weeks away. Most people are aware by now that something is happening. However, they may not fully understand how they will be affected or if they will be affected at all. From my personal findings it seems people are aware and know what needs to be done, but haven’t made the necessary preparations.
Well, let’s refresh everyone. First, if you have purchased a new television set in the last two years you will be fine. Newer TV sets have the digital receiving technology built into them. Second, if you have an older set and receive all of your programing through satellite or cable-TV service you will be OK. It will be up to your service provider to make the necessary changes. However, if you have an older set and use an antenna to receive your television programing or have satellite or cable service and need an antenna to receive your local broadcast stations then you will be affected. Changes will have to be made to continue viewing programing with your antenna.
One thing you will not need to do is replace your antenna. Your current antenna will work just fine. You may find marketing ploys that advertise HDTV antenna. Don’t fall for it! It’s just a gimmick. Analog television broadcast on assigned channels 2 through 69. Digital TV will utilize the same channel spectrum. However, they will be broadcasting on a different channel than their analog spot. For instance, where I’m at WDAF channel 4 in Kansas City is broadcasting their digital station on channel 34. Despite broadcasting on a different channel the station programs the signal so it will appear on the correct numerical number on your tuner.
If you are a middle age person like myself you probably remember when color TV became popular there was a gimmick of selling color TV antennas. Let’s face it, if the station was broadcasting in color you would receive it in color. There was no special antenna just to receive a color signal. The same goes for HDTV.
Most digital stations will be broadcasting in the UHF range (channels 14 through 51). There are a smaller number that will be in the VHF-High band (channels 7 to 13). A few stations will be in the VHF-Low range (channels 2 through 6).
A good UHF antenna is the best secret to good digital TV reception. I have found that an old style UHF antenna that has been around for over 40 years works the best. If you currently have good reception on your UHF stations, your digital reception will be spectacular! Even if your stations are a bit snowy due to weak signals it will still work fine. If you have problems such as dropouts in the signal, a good antenna pre-amplifier will overcome the issue.
All you will need to do to an older set is add a digital converter box*. Leave your antenna alone unless you just happen to need a new one.
Digital TV has been a blessing for me. I live 65 miles away from the Kansas City stations. Even though I built a 50 foot tower, installed large deep fringe antennas, and used preamps, I was still plagued with electrical static, co-channel interference, and snowy UHF stations. Now with digital technology I get all stations crystal clear, and so will you.
By: Steven Lancey
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*To purchase a digital converter box visit: www.hdtvultimate.com
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