Consumer Tips for DTV Reception Problems on TV Channels 7-13

If you are having trouble receiving free, local over-the-air television with an indoor antenna on TV channels 2-13, we recommend you take the following steps.
 

Make sure the antenna is capable of receiving all of the over-the-air DTV stations in your area. Some antennas are not designed to receive all TV channels. TV stations are broadcasting on channels 2-13 (VHF Channels) and 14-69 (UHF Channels.) Look for a label stating that the antenna is designed to receive all the channels in your area and meets the standards established by the Consumer Electronics Association.
 

Do not place the antenna near electrical devices, including the TV set. Electrical devices in the home may cause antennas to pick up interfering noise, which may affect TV reception. Move the antenna away from electrical devices including the TV set itself, computers, modems and household appliances.
 

Try moving the antenna to different locations in the room. You should rescan your TV set or converter box after each move. Make sure to wait after each move as it takes a few seconds for the TV set or converter box to retune.
 

Place the indoor antenna in a window, if possible.
If you have an indoor directional antenna (rabbit ears for VHF and a loop for UHF channels), be sure to aim your antenna in the direction of the broadcast tower. Make sure you rescan your TV receiver after redirecting the antenna.
 

Call your local station if you are not sure of the location, or use the following websites:
FCC: http://www.dtv.gov
DTV Answers: http://www.dtvanswers.com
NAB/CEA Antenna Web: www.antennaweb.org
If you do not have web access you should call 1-888-CALL-FCC for assistance.
 

Amplified VHF antennas (channels 2-13) may harm reception if you live near a broadcast tower. Amplified VHF antennas may also amplify the interference from the electrical devices in your home. If you live close to a TV station, and cannot receive the station, try using a non-amplified VHF antenna.
If you live more than 15 miles from a television station, consider purchasing an outdoor antenna. To see what types of outdoor antennas you need, check the websites listed above.