Why You Need HDTV Antenna Ratings Before You Buy OneThere is a lot of variation in HDTV antenna ratings. A model that is best for a certain home might be worst for another home. This is explained by the many factors that contribute to the functioning of such antennas. A number of different types of HDTV antennas exist, and each has its pros and cons which depend on the circumstances. Three basic distinctions separate the different antennas into categories. Most obviously, there is a difference between outdoor and indoor antennas. After that, there is the distinction between antennas that pick up Ultra High Frequency (UHF) ranges and Very High Frequency (VHF) ranges. The last main distinction to be made is between multi-directional and directional antennas. Indoor antennas are usually relatively small and sit on top of or near a television set. Outdoor antennas are comparatively quite large, and they are usually mounted on or near a rooftop. Larger antennas are generally stronger, so outdoor antennas are usually going to provide a better signal than can be achieved with an indoor model. Outdoor models are also less vulnerable to obstructions getting in the way of the signal, since they are higher off the ground. In contrast, indoor models are typically lower and more prone to interference from surrounding buildings or even items within the house. In our HDTV antenna ratings we’ve found there are times when an indoor antenna will be the ideal choice. When a TV station has a transmitter located within just a few miles, an indoor antenna can be perfectly adequate. Since these smaller, indoor models usually cost a lot less, they will be the better option in this case. VHF and UHF antennas are made for picking up different frequency ranges. UHF models can get channels 14-69, whereas VHF models get 2-13. UHF antennas do not need to be as large as VHF antennas, because they do not need to pick up waves that are as large in size. Which channels are desired determines which type of antenna is needed. Directional antennas, sometimes called uni-directional, can receive signals within a 20 degree range in a single direction. While the range of these is somewhat narrow, they tend to reach further than multi-directional antennas. A directional model is great if most station's transmitters are located in one direction. Using a rotor also allows for rotation of the antenna, so it can pick up signals in multiple directions, just not all at once. The biggest benefit of this type is that it cuts down on interference, since signals are only being picked up within a narrow range. Multi-directional antennas can get signals from any direction at once. These do sacrifice some distance for range, so their reach is not as great. They also tend to pick up some interference or distortion because they receive signals from all directions at one time. This is the best option, though, if signals need to be picked up in all directions all at once. When comparing HDTV antenna ratings, it is necessary to consider that various kinds of antennas function better under certain circumstances. The type that is going to work the best will depend largely on the situation. Each of the various kinds is the best choice in some setting Back to Best HDTV Antenna Page
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