DTV: You'll Need an Antenna That Handles UHF and VHF

By: Tom Crabtree | News Channel 7
Published: November 15, 2008 | 0 Comments | Post a Comment

When you think DTV, don't forget about your TV antenna.

It's a critical piece of equipment you'll need to enjoy the improved picture and sound quality digital television brings.

If yours is among the 250,000 households in South Carolina (100,000 Upstate) that watch over-the-air TV, likely you already have an antenna. It may be the same one you've had for decades.

But you -may- need a new one for DTV.

You don't have to wait until the February 17, 2009 transition to watch digital television. It's available now. February 17 (at midnight) is when analog broadcasting will discontinue.

Right now, the digital broadcasts are on UHF channels. After February 17, some digital channels will remain on UHF (Ultra High Frequency, channel 14 and above); others will move to VHF (Very High Frequency, channel 2 - 13).

For example, News Channel 7's digital programming is on channel 53 currently. After February 17, it moves to channel 7.

You'll need an antenna that handles both VHF and UHF channels.

Some viewers get a good picture by using a set-top antenna (also known as "rabbit ears"). Other viewers need an outdoor antenna to get a good quality picture. The distance you live from our transmitter on Hogback Mountain near Landrum can impact your TV reception, especially if you live 30 miles or more from the transmitter. Other factors affecting signal quality include trees and walls. You may find you need not only a better antenna, but also a preamp to boost the TV signal.

This web site may help you: http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

Remember, if you have an analog TV, your antenna plugs into the DTV converter box, and the box plugs into your TV.

If you have a newer TV with a built-in digital tuner, you don't need a converter box. The antenna plugs straight into your TV, and you're good to go.

Feel free to call the News Channel 7 engineering staff at 864-576-7777 if you face a technical issue involving DTV and need help.

News Channel 7 will make sure you're ready for the new world of DTV!