January 2010
NTech IT Trading, wholesale and mail order electronics supplier, our consultants specialise in satellite, telecom, broadcasting and IT services.

Tech Advice for Digital TV Reception
Although this page refers to freeview in the UK, - the same principals can be applied for other regions, e.g. TDT in Spain.

This is a new page and will be updated with further sub categories. We allready have some advice in the satellite section.

Fix Reception Problems
NOTE: Now that the DTV Transition is completed and all stations have changed to their final DTV channels, be sure to scan for channel changes as convenient.

Consumers having difficulty receiving certain television channels following the June 12 transition to digital TV should try these tips for better reception: double rescanning, and double checking and relocating their antennas. Meanwhile, local broadcasters are working to resolve those issues that originate with their signal.

Double Check & Relocate Your Antenna

You must have a VHF/UHF antenna. Rabbit ears, rods, or other elements are needed to pick up channels 2-13 (VHF), and a circle, bow-tie, or other element is needed to pick up channels 14-51 (UHF). Some antennas marketed as HDTV antennas don�t perform well on VHF channels; some antennas are VHF or UHF-only.

For the best reception of channels 2-6, extend the rods all the way out. For the best reception of channels 7-13, reduce the length of the rods to 12-18 inches.

Location, Location, Location

The location of an indoor antenna is key. And one of the most popular spots for indoor antennas � on top of the TV � may not be the best. Consumers having trouble with digital TV reception should try moving their antennas to one of these locations:

  • Near a window
  • As high as possible
  • Away from other electronic equipment, including computers, VCRs, DVD players, converter boxes, and the television itself
  • Change the direction the antenna is facing
  • Rooftop antennas may be needed in some instances

Consumers may need to run the scan function again on their converter boxes after moving the antenna.

While adjusting your antenna, it may be helpful to access the signal strength meter on your digital-to-analog converter box or digital television to determine whether your adjustments are improving the signals strength. The signal strength meter is usually accessed through the menu feature on your remote control. Refer to the owners manual of your device for detailed instructions on how to access its signal strength meter. Remember to do another channel scan after you have adjusted your antenna.