At FOX23, we want you to be able to watch the best local and network programming on FOX and MyNetworkTV whenever you want – without a cable subscription. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you set up your digital antenna to access over-the-air content.
Getting Your Equipment
Although broadcast television has been and always will be completely free to view, it’s not without an initial investment in equipment. Below you’ll find the required devices to get you off the ground.
- A digital-ready TV: Most modern television sets have a built-in digital tuner, meaning you won’t need any extra equipment at this step.
- An indoor or outdoor antenna: Whether you’ll need an indoor or outdoor antenna will depend on your proximity to broadcast antennas in the Paducah-Cape Girardeau-Harrisburg TV market. Indoor antennas are generally cheaper, but outdoor antennas receive a wider range of channels.
Here are a couple options for indoor antennas.
Modern Loop Rabbit Ears TV Antenna
- A coaxial cable: This cable, sometimes referred to as an “RF cable” or abbreviated as “coax,” will enable you to connect your antenna to a port on the back of your TV typically labeled as “Antenna/Cable In.” Some antennas may already include an antenna in the box.
Connecting Your Antenna
Most coaxial cables feature male prongs on both ends, for which you’ll find corresponding female ports on your television set and your antenna.
The male end must first be carefully inserted into the small hole present within the port, after which you’ll screw down the threaded coupling mechanism to ensure a secure connection.
(This particular screw-on standard is known as an “F connector,” or “F-type connector,” in case you’re concerned you may have picked up the incorrect cable.)
Tips for Improving Signal Strength
- Optimal Antenna Placement
- Higher Elevation: Place the antenna as high as possible. Higher elevations can reduce obstructions and improve signal reception.
- Near Windows: Position the antenna near a window facing the direction of the broadcast towers.
- Avoid Obstructions: Keep the antenna away from large metal objects, electronic devices, and other obstructions that might interfere with the signal.
- Use an Amplified Antenna
- Amplified Antennas: If you live far from broadcast towers, consider using an amplified antenna to boost the signal. Ensure the amplifier is placed close to the antenna for the best results.
- Adjust the Antenna Orientation
- Directional Adjustments: Rotate the antenna slowly to find the direction that gives the best reception. Some antennas are directional, meaning they need to be pointed towards the broadcast towers for optimal performance.
- Multiple Locations: Test the antenna in multiple locations within your home to find the spot with the strongest signal.
- Check for Interference
- Electronic Devices: Turn off or move electronic devices (like routers, cordless phones, or microwaves) that might be causing interference.
- Cord Management: Ensure the antenna’s coaxial cable is away from power cables and other potential sources of interference.
- Upgrade Your Antenna
- Antenna Quality: If you’re using an older or basic antenna, consider upgrading to a higher-quality model. Newer antennas often have better technology for capturing signals.
- Type of Antenna: Depending on your location, you might need an outdoor antenna, or one specifically designed for your reception conditions.
- Weather Considerations
- Weather Impact: Be aware that heavy rain, snow, or high winds can temporarily affect signal strength. Ensure your antenna is securely installed to withstand weather conditions.
- Signal Boosters and Filters
- Signal Boosters: Consider using a signal booster if you are far from broadcast towers or have many walls obstructing the signal.
- Filters: If you live in an area with a lot of cell tower signals, a filter can help reduce interference from mobile phone frequencies.
- Regular Maintenance
- Check Connections: Periodically check the antenna and cable connections to ensure they are secure and free of corrosion or damage.
- Cable Quality: Use high-quality coaxial cables to reduce signal loss.
- Use Online Tools · Antenna Locator Websites: Use websites or apps like AntennaWeb or TVFool to find the best direction and placement for your antenna based on your location.
- Professional Help
- Expert Installation: If you continue to experience issues, consider hiring a professional to install and optimize your antenna setup.
Scanning for Channels
How you’ll scan for channels can vary wildly from TV to TV, so it’s best to dig into the settings for yourself. For reference’s sake, we’ll take you through the menu of a Samsung UN40EH5000F, as it will likely align that of your television set at home.
- Press the menu button on your remote: The menu button is located just above the four arrow buttons near the bottom of the remote.
- Press the down arrow button twice to navigate to the “Channel” section: This section is below the “Picture” and “Sound” sections.
- Press the right arrow button once and the down arrow button once after that to reach the “Auto Program” tab: Press the enter button located in the middle of the arrow buttons to select “Auto Program.”
- On the subsequent pop-up menu, select the “Start” button next to “Air” to scan for channels: Do not select “Cable,” as you are instead using an antenna.
Watch Your Favorite Shows
Now that you have automatically programmed your channels, it’s time to watch your favorite shows, sports, local news, and weather on Fox 23 and My49. But first, don’t forget the last, most important step:
Watch FOX23 News on weeknights at 9 p.m.!