To antenna for HDTV, or not to antenna for HDTV, that is the question

No doubt about it, your antenna for HDTV will perform much better if you have the correct antenna attached. If you have a built in digital tuner with your HDTV, you can get away without paying a cent to your local cable or satellite company for the subscription fees. However the one thing you cannot escape is -you need that antenna.

Indoor antennas are relatively inexpensive, but you get what you pay for and cheap generally means limited range. If you’re close to a broadcast tower and there is not a lot of interference, no worries, you will be fine when it comes to receiving most local stations. The Zenith ZHDTV1 is a great candidate for this type of use. However, if you want ‘more power’ and ‘more channels,’ you will need to go higher – both literally and figuratively.

If you’re too confined indoors, reach higher

OK, so the indoor antenna was a bust. No worries, take it outdoors. The ideal location for your outdoor antenna is on your roof. House or apartment building, it doesn’t matter. Going up will give you a better reception and less interference.

Landlords says, “no” or co-op board won’t allow antenna installation in your building? Not a problem. The FCC has made special provisions for over the air reception devices. Check out their roles and know your rights.

HDTV Antennas – a different breed of antenna

With so many HDTV antennas on the market, it is easy to become overwhelmed when it comes to selecting just one. However, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has come to the rescue with a web site chock full of invaluable information that will make your selection of an antenna less painful and less stressful. You can find the site at antennaweb.org .

The factors you must consider when selecting an HDTV antenna include:

• Your location as it relates to the broadcast tower or towers you will be accessing
• The height of your house or building where you will be installing the antenna
• Any potential interference you may encounter such as nearby buildings or tall trees

Once you have determined these factors, you can move forward with your selection of an antenna for HDTV and not grope around in the dark.

Most consumers prefer medium-size, multi-element antennas due to their more compact size and ability to overcome potential obstacles such as ghost-producing reflective structures that may affect your reception. The CEA site is a great resource in aiding the average consumer in selecting the right antenna for HDTV for their location. This site also offers tools and tips for installation.

In short, If you are going to get an HDTV antenna and install it yourself, check out the CEA site before you make a purchase. An informed consumer is a happy consumer and a content HDTV watcher.

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