Free HDTV? Sure, if you have ‘the right stuff’ – an antenna for HDTV outdoor and indoor
No every antenna for HDTV outdoor and indoor are created equal. They come in all shapes and sizes and there are many different features from which you may choose. HDTV is pretty cool and, yes, it is free, but you must have the proper equipment in order to receive the full benefits.
Small Multi-directional. When it comes to TV antennas, these guys are the smallest. They receive well, look good and don’t take up a lot of space.
Medium Multi-directional. These antennas have a little more power, plus their somewhat larger than their small cousins. Their functionality is somewhat impaired around reflecting structures and low areas, and it is recommended you use an amplified antenna if you run a long cable or if more than one device is being used with the antenna. However, they serve the purpose well.
Large Multi-directional. These are even larger and offer even more signal power. This is the antenna of choice when it comes to large distances between signal source and antenna or when the area experiences low signal strength.
Small Directional. These antennas can somewhat reduce ghost effects. Though the performance is affected around signal reflecting structures, otherwise the picture quality is exceptional.
Medium Directional. This rooftop antenna wins a popularity contest, hands down. While its functionality is very good and it has great ghost-reducing capabilities, its smaller size is very desirable. This antenna is very adaptable to the surroundings and works great even if reflective structures are around the antenna location.
Large Directional. In areas where there is a weak signal, large antennas are the most effective. While they offer maximum reception, they can also take a good deal of space and require an amplifier and roof mounting.
Your antenna directions actually begin before you even make your final selection. When you are selecting an antenna for HDTV outdoor and indoor- look for the mark on the box indicating the antenna is CEA certified.
This means your antenna can be installed using the color codes and the seven different zones listed on antennaweb.org . The zones tell you which antenna for HDTV-outdoor and indoor-are needed in that area for optimal reception. Bottom line, if you live close to a signal tower you can probably get away with an indoor antenna.
The farther away you are from the signal tower, the greater likelihood that you’ll be sporting an antenna for HDTV outdoor. On a final note read the directions and do your homework.
