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The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

The Nation's Premier Civil and Human Rights Coalition
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights & The Leadership Conference Education Fund
The Nation's Premier Civil and Human Rights Coalition
Digital Television Transition. Get the coupon. Get the right box. Keep your TV.
Digital TV Transition HomeWhat You Can DoFrequently Asked QuestionsOrganizer Toolkit

Make Sure Your Antenna Works for DTV

The same basic indoor antenna that provides good reception on an analog TV will usually provide good reception for DTV as well.

If you already have an antenna, follow the steps below to determine if it will work for DTV. If you get poor reception even after adjusting your antenna, you may need to upgrade your antenna.

  1. Find out which DTV channels are available in your area by checking the DTV Reception Map for your zip code. Keep in mind that signal strength may vary due to terrain, neighboring buildings and trees, weather, and other factors.
  2. Check that your antenna receives both VHF and UHF signals. Most DTV channels broadcast on the UHF band (channels 14-51) so in some areas a UHF-only antenna will be adequate for DTV. In other areas, some DTV stations broadcast on VHF (channels 2-13) and you will need a combination VHF/UHF antenna.
  3. Follow the directions that came with your converter box to install the box, connect the antenna, and do an initial scan for channels.
  4. If you receive poor reception at first, adjust the antenna's location. Moving it closer to a window may help. As you change the antenna's position, many converter boxes will tell you what signal strength you're getting. Be sure to move the antenna slowly as digital TV tuners need a little time to properly detect the signal.
  5. After adjusting your antenna, re-scan for channels on your converter box to see if you are able to receive additional channels. Keep in mind that if you are checking your antenna before or on June 12, some stations may not have started broadcasting their digital signal yet.
  6. If you are unable to get a strong signal after adjusting the antenna, you may need to upgrade to a more advanced antenna.

Upgrading Your Antenna

Different antennas offer better signal strengths at certain locations. Visit AntennaWeb.org to find which type of antenna will work best in your home, as well as tips on installing and adjusting your antenna.

The most effective antenna is the outdoor rooftop model, which you can mount on the roof and point in different directions to get signals.  Antenna prices start at around $10-$15. Rooftop antennas are priced at around $50. 

Additional Resources