HDTV antennas have become important items in our life today as many states now totally broadcast TV in high definition. The antennas enable us to view high quality TV programs easily. Before buying an antenna, you are reminded to make your selection carefully. You can’t simply get any antenna, as it may not suit your digital TV due to some factors. Having certain knowledge about antennas is crucial.
So as to save your valuable time attempting to find info related to antenna, I have summarised some important facts here. You can take the points below as reference.
Why do we need HDTV antennas?
First thing first, let me ask you one question. Why do we need HDTV antennas? What is the difference between standard definition and hi-def? The HDTV antennas allow more than 1000 lines of color to be transmitted. But for standard definition, only 480 lines of color are broadcast. To paraphrase, the more lines of color that are transmitted, the sharper image quality you can obtain. Now you know why so many people are crazily talking about HDTV!
Free HD Broadcasts
If you’d like to watch free HD broadcast, it is for sure you need the antenna to get a clearer view. However , if you are a customer of satellite or cable, you will not need an antenna. You will be able to watch programs in hi-def immediately.
Size Counts
There are several types of antennas in the market. They have different features and functions. They come in different sizes. Some little antennas look like rabbit ears. You may find enormous roof models. The scale of an antenna has an effect on the image quality of the TV programs. Generally, the larger the antenna is, the more clear the reception.
Positioning
Besides the dimensions of the antenna, its position also plays an important role. If you’d like to have clearer view, you need to place your antenna at a position where there are no obstructions. Avoid positioning your antenna where there are tall buildings, tall hills or mountains, or any other obstructions in the way. If it can’t be avoided, then you will likely have less satisfying image quality.
HD or Standard?
HDTV signals are broadcast over the same frequencies as analog signals. If you currently have a standard antenna, you might not want to spend additional cash to get a new HDTV antenna. If not, you will need to get a converter box to pick up the HDTV signals. Nonetheless, if your standard antenna is too old skool, you may not be able to view the programs in high definition. If this is the case, you’ll need to get a HDTV antenna to solve the issue.
Not all digital TVs are able to match with the HDTV antennas. These antennas pick up broadcast with a wide 16:9 aspect proportion. If you are watching the programs with black bars on top and bottom of the image, it shows that your TV doesn’t have wide screen display. You must refer to the electronic stores for technical suggestions.
Being a smart consumer, by knowing the specifics about HDTV antennas, you will be capable of making smart decision.