Contrary to popular belief, TV antennas aren’t a thing of the past. In fact, as more and more people are choosing to get rid of cable and satellite, they’re installing various types of antennas in their homes.


Though you can’t watch network TV with a basic antenna, you can still watch your favorite broadcast channels and local shows without paying that hefty cable bill! But because there’s still a negative stigma toward antennas, we’ve decided to compile our most commonly asked antenna-related questions.


●        Aren’t antennas meant for older TVs?

Not necessarily. You’re probably thinking of rabbit ear antennas, which were used to receive analog signals to TVs in the early 2000s and before. Today, digital signals are used, therefore, today's antennas are made to receive this new signal version. And these antennas can come in many shapes and sizes.


●        How does an antenna work?

An over-the-air antenna works by pulling in TV signals from the air, much like a radio. However, the signals transmitted today are digital, not analog, meaning the antennas had to evolve to accommodate this. The digital signal means improved sound and a high-definition picture.

●        Will an antenna work with my TV?

Most likely. Many TVs made after 2007 have the capability to work seamlessly with over-the-air antennas. However, older TVs were manufactured to receive analog signals, which are no longer used today. If you have an older model TV in your home, we might recommend you purchase a converter box to receive the digital signal.


●        Will I lose my connection in bad weather?

Not at all. Having a signal during severe weather is vital to receive up-to-the-minute weather updates on your local news stations. If you live in the metro area, a properly installed over-the-air antenna will likely never lose picture in a storm or high winds.


●        What channels can I watch with an antenna?

With an over-the-air antenna, you can receive 20 to 30 channels in the Twin Cities metro area. This includes all the major broadcast channels, such as ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, CW and PBS. To view a complete list of channels available over the air, contact us today.


●        Will the picture quality of an antenna be as clear as cable?

Yes – even clearer! Cable and satellite companies compress multiple channels into a signal which leads to a lower quality picture on your TV. In fact, high-end home theater owners use an antenna to get the best picture from their systems.


●        Do I need an antenna on my roof?

Not necessarily. Depending on your location in the Cities, we can install your antenna in your attic or other parts of your home. We can work with you to determine the best antenna solution for you.


●        Does each TV in my house need an antenna?

No. A centrally located antenna can hook up to all of your TVs at the same time. It works just like cable but without the cost.


●        I live outside the metro area, can I still get an over-the-air signal with an antenna?

Yes. You can use an antenna to receive Twin Cities stations as far away as St. Cloud, Faribault and beyond.



Cable Alternatives’ TV Signal Guarantee


No matter your location or situation, we offer our TV Signal Guarantee with our digital TV antenna customers. Antennas rarely lose a signal; however if a problem with your antenna does occur, we will fix the issue and cover the cost of repair.


For more information about our antenna installation services, contact us today at 763-571-1037.