TRI-STATES -- Less than 100 days and counting until the switch to digital television happens.
You've heard us talk about converter boxes, but an important part of getting good, crisp digital television is a good antenna.
You may be able to use an indoor antenna to get a decent signal, or you may not.
Is an outside antenna necessary?
"In most cases yes. Even in Quincy. We have instances with people who have rabbit ears and put them behind their TVs or couches, and can't get a good signal. When you put it in a window, the signal comes in very good, says Mike Seaver, an independent broadcast engineer consultant.
That means an outdoor antenna may be necessary to get you a good, reliable signal, especially if you live farther away from Quincy.
"The digital signal doesn't seem to penetrate as well as the analog signal did that we used in the olden days. The use of an outside antenna becomes very important," says Seaver.
Keep in mind, an outdoor antenna does not have to be large, and way up in the air, but it does need to be outside. Also, keep this in mind if you already have an outdoor antenna. They age, and stay out in the weather, so yours may need to be replaced. Also think about the cable that runs from the antenna to your TV, it might not be in the best shape either. One other thing, keep the angle of the antenna in mind.
"We have found some are pointed 45 degrees away from Quincy. With digital signal, it's important they are pointed the same direction of the town you're trying to pick up," adds Seaver.
And you don't need to fall for some advertising for a digital antenna. Seaver tells me the only difference between an analog antenna and a digital one is the design.
"The old antennas set with a pole up the house and an antenna on top. The new ones can set vertically and can go up under the eve of a house, " says Seaver.
Seaver also told me it's best to find someone who's qualified to install an outdoor antenna.
That way, you're assured it's done correctly.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKHQA