HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide

Those of you who thought that TV antennas have become obsolete, think again. Due to technical changes and advances in Hdtvs, more and more people are looking to buy antennas. These are mainly required to receive OTA or over-the-Air digital signals and for this purpose, you may need over-the-roof antennas. People who have subscribed for satellite signals also need antennas to receive local channels.

HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide

HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide

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HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide

HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide

Set-top antennas today, provide cutting edge designs-but they can also set you back by hundreds of Dollars. The older rooftop antennas have also undergone a treMendous change. While the older designs stood on your roofs like scarecrows, the newer versions can be easily camouflaged and stuck under the eaves of your roofs. These> antennas can also be amplified to boost signal receptions.

There are two methods of broadcasting OTA signals-the eight bit vestigial side band modulation technique and the coded orthogonal frequency division multiplexing. Both these systems have their pros and cons. The 8 VSB Uniface utilized the broadcasting spectrum more efficiently so the US laws have made this as the broadcast standard for US digital TVs. The reason why antennas have become even more necessary is the fact that the 8VSB signals are difficult to receive in many areas.

An important consideration when choosing antennas for your Hdtv is the distance from the broadcasting stations; if you live more than 10 miles away then adequate reception can be had using roof top or attic mounted> antennas. On the contrary, the indoor antennas are sufficient for distances less than 10 miles. The second drawback of US 8VSB broadcast is that its performance is quite poor multidirectional. Hence you need to invest in good UHF antennaunidirectional. These are available at most electronic stores easily. Do remember to place the antenna at the highest point on your roof if you live more than 15 miles from the broadcasting station.

Another important factor you must not ignore when you purchase antennas for Hdtv is the front-to-back ratio of the antenna. Larger this ratio, lesser is the interference in signal and better the picture quality. If you are living in an area with very tall buildings, then signal interference is a majorissue; a highly directive antenna with a good front-to-back ratio can help your signal reception greatly.

When you purchase a Hdtv you also get a HDTV receiver. Some TVs also come with built-in HDTV tuners called ATSC. The HD signals can be phased in on some regular and cable channels and a rooftop antenna can receive these.

HDTV Antennas-A Simple Buyers Guide