HDTV Antennas

HDTV antennas: your gateway to digital television

HDTV antennas are still required to make the best of high definition programming in many cases. Prices for HDTV sets are falling and most broadcast networks (including ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC) have high definition programming available over the air or via cable or satellite. However it still requires a bit of elbow grease to bring the new wave of television into your home.

Before you buy the latest model plasma television with the intention of viewing high definition television make sure you understand how you're going to access it. Will you be getting your high definition television via satellite. In this case you won't need a tuner or HDTV antennas.

If you own a new model HTDV and want high definition programming you can simply make use of HDTV antennas. Putting up an antenna works because over-the-air high definition programming can be used with the built-in tuners available with many latest model HDTVs. The tuner is needed to view both high and low definition programming options.

The FCC is in the process of mandating more built-in DTV tuners. At present, all TVs sized 36 inches or more must include built-in tuners. By July 1, 2007, all tuners that are sold must be able to access digital broadcasts. It is thought that by 2009 a broadcaster will have the capability to turn off their analog over-the-air transmissions, plunging lower income homes into a world without television. But what about HDTV antennas?

If you don't have an HDTV with an integrated DTV tuner you have to buy a separate set-top box that can get digital signals. HDTV antennas are the tool that makes the conversion of signal to picture possible. To receive high definition programming you don't need to best or most expensive antenna. A basic antenna will work fine but some brands do function better than others.

Indoor HDTV antennas might work to receive high definition programming but it may be a lot harder than with an outdoor or attic mounted antenna. The best performances come from antennas mounted outdoors. All you have to do is set the antenna up so that it faces you local transmission tower. A few tries should see you getting the correct signal. To get the best signal find somebody who can read the HDTV receiver or TV.

For help setting up HDTV antennas visit Antennaweb.org. All you need to do is enter your zip code. This site supplies compass headings for HDTV nearby. The site can also help you choose the best antenna for HDTV viewing depending on where you live.

Once it's been set up you should have a very clear picture. There should not be any static or ghosting on the screen. HDTV antennas might cause breaking up and dropping in and out if the signal strength is very weak. There is a detailed description of how to install an outdoor antenna on CNET's "Watch free HDTV with an outdoor antenna" feature.

Also be sure to check out our pages about HDTV Reviews, HDTV Ratings, Plasma HDTV, HDTV Receivers, and HDTV Tuner elsewhere on this site.