HDTV Antenna Vs. Analog Antenna
In the United States, over-the-air (OTA) television broadcasts changed from analog to digital in June 2009. Does a person who only had access to analog TV now need a different kind of antenna to receive digital OTA television?
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VHF and UHF
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The main difference between analog and digital OTA television is that analog uses the VHF (Very High Frequency) spectrum, while digital uses UHF (Ultra High Frequency). If your antenna has both VHF and UHF capability, you do not need an "HDTV antenna."
Digital Basics
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It's important to distinguish between "digital" and "HDTV." A digital antenna can receive an HDTV signal, but a digital television signal does not have to be in high definition.
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Analog TVs
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Furthermore, if you have an analog "tube" TV, then you need to attach your antenna to a converter box to see digital and HDTV OTA television.
Cable and Satellite Boxes
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However, if you have a cable or satellite box, it does the conversion for you, and you don't need an antenna. But you might need to specifically order an HDTV package from your content provider.
Built-In Antennas
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Most flat-panel TVs have built-in television tuners compatible with digital signals, but a TV labeled as "tuner-free" needs a separate tuner.
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