How Do I Get Free Digital TV?
While it could be said that nothing in life comes without some sort of cost, free digital TV comes close. The digital broadcast signals and the programs they carry can be easily received at no charge, however you do need a television and an antenna. Virtually all TVs sold today are equipped with a digital tuner, but if you own an older, analog-style television you will need an analog to digital converter box. In the United States, these boxes are readily available at most electronics stores, and the government provides a credit of $40 US Dollars (USD).
The other basic criteria for receiving free digital TV includes having an adequate antenna and living within a reasonable distance of a transmission tower. Generally speaking, you should own an antenna that receives both Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and Very High Frequency (VHF) signals. While it is true that most digital signals are broadcast on UHF bands, a few are sent out as VHF. If you live within 60 to 70 miles (96 to 112 kilometers) of a transmission tower, you should be able to receive a free digital TV signal.
The antenna is as important a part of receiving free digital TV as is the television or tuner box. The further away you live from a transmission tower, the larger and higher your antenna will need to be. If you live in a major city, you should get by just fine with a small, indoor antenna. If you live in a fringe area, then it is best that your antenna be placed on an outdoor mast. Not only should the antenna be above your roofline, it should also be located away from power lines and any obstructions that could block the signal.
Free digital TV is also very popular in Australia and Japan, but such is not the case in most of Europe. High-Definition Television (HDTV) has not truly caught on with either European viewers or broadcasters, but this situation is expected to change dramatically. As the cost of flat-screen televisions drop, it is anticipated that European TV sales will soar. When that occurs, broadcasters will begin airing the high-clarity, digital signals.
Most cable and satellite television providers send their signals in a digital format, and in this case you have no need of purchasing either a digital-ready TV or antenna. These services come at a price though, which defeats the entire purpose of free digital TV. Digital programming acquired via over-the-air antenna includes the offerings of all the major networks. If you do not seek hundreds of channels, or the premium movie options available through cable and satellite providers, free digital TV is a viable option.
Written by Ron Marr
