Make The Switch To DTV

By Dan Bewley and Scott Thompson, News On 6

UNDATED -- The countdown is on to the Digital TV transition. If you have cable or satellite, you don't need to worry, but beginning February 17th, you will no longer be able to receive television signals over the air.

A simple antenna is how thousands of viewers receive their television programs.

The antenna will still work after the switch, but it's important to know which kind you should use.

When February 17th gets here, analog television signals will stop, but that doesn't mean people who use antennas will be left without their favorite programs.

The first step is to buy a converter box. Then, decide if you want a new antenna or plan to use your current antenna.

"So depending upon where you're at will determine if I can get away with a small one," said Joe Chronister, Video Revolution.

Joe Chronister is with Video Revolution, he says it's important to have an antenna capable of receiving both UHF and VHF signals, but the big choice comes with what size antenna is best for your needs.

Small antennas plug into any electrical outlet, sit on top of your TV and plug directly into the back console.

Chronister says small antennas work fine if you live in the city, but if you want more channels or live outside of town, consider a big antenna.

"If you want your best reception, less flicker in the picture and more channels, get a big, uglier antenna whether you put it inside or you put it outside," said Chronister.

The key, he says, is bars called "elements."

"So the more elements that I have on an antenna, the better chance I have of getting more channels," said Chronister.

But Chronister is quick to say that you may not need to make a change because the television channels you are getting now will be the same the end of February.

"Whatever you're getting in the analog with a basic antenna, you should automatically, without having to change antennas, you should get that digital channel without having to make an upgrade on the antenna," said Chronister.

Click here for help determining which antenna is best for where you live.