Why do I need a converter box for my TV?

Why do I need a digital converter box? A digital converter box allows older analog TV sets to receive and display channels that aren't on analog signals, providing access to additional channels.

How do you know if you need a digital converter box?

Check the specs on your TV using your model number. If it has an ATSC digital tuner, an external converter box will not be needed. If the TV shows an NTSC analog tuner only, then a converter box will be needed.

What does a converter box do for a TV?

A set-top box that converts over-the-air digital TV broadcasts to analog for TV sets that accept only analog input (NTSC, PAL). It transforms digital broadcasts in standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD) to analog.

Can you get cable channels with a converter box?

The new TV converter boxes are an ideal way to get a lot of channels for not a lot of money. You will not have as many channels as with cable, but the TV converter boxes allow broadcasting networks in your area to include sub-channels that may run the news, weather or additional programing.

Is a cable box the same as a converter box?

What Is a TV Box? A TV Box (also known as a digital cable box, digital converter box or digital receiver) processes digital-quality signals. With a TV Box, you can view our on-screen channel guide, which includes access to TV listings, program information, search tools, parental controls and more.

Hooking up a Digital TV Converter Box

Can I still get a free digital converter box?

Free Digital Converter Box Program

The program ended in July 2009, and according to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, about 33,962,696 coupons were ultimately used. Unfortunately, it's no longer possible to get a free digital converter box through the government.

How can I use an antenna without a converter box?

What year TV needs a converter box?

Because analog TV sets are no longer being manufactured, the only reason you would need a converter box is if you have a really old TV that only accepts analog signals. All analog TV transmissions ended in the US in 2009, so if you want to watch HD television on your old analog set, then you must get a DTV converter.

Can old TVs still be used?

Yes, your analog portable TV can still work if you either get a digital-to-analog converter box or sign up with a subscription service like cable or satellite TV.

How can I tell if my TV is digital or analog?

All DTV sets have such a labels or markings that may contain the words "Integrated Digital Tuner," "Digital Tuner Built-In," "Digital Receiver," "Digital Tuner," "DTV" or "ATSC." If you can't find one of these logos, you have an analog television.

How do you know if your TV has a built in digital tuner?

Look on the front and back of the TV for a marking that indicates a digital tuner. It might say ATSC, DTV, HDTV, Digital Ready, HD Ready, Digital Tuner, Digital Receiver, Digital Tuner Built-in or Integrated Digital Tuner. Locate the model number of the TV and check the specifications on the manufacturer's website.

Can I use an old cable box as a digital converter?

It doesn't have an input for anything but an antenna. If the cable box has audio video outputs then those could be converted to HDMI if needed. You can't use just a cable with HDMI at one end and RCA plugs at the other. Won't work at all.

Can I watch TV without a box?

Wide-screen TVs sold in the US since 2005 have a tuner built in that handles digital signals. If you own a TV that was made recently, the set can work with the signal from a digital antenna directly; you don't need a separate converter box.

Are there any analog TV stations left?

Full power analog TV broadcasts officially ended on June 12, 2009. There may be cases were low-power, analog TV broadcasts could still be available in some communities. These should have also been discontinued as of September 1, 2015, unless the FCC granted special permission to a specific station licensee.

How can I watch cable for free?

Pluto is the best overall platform to stream free TV. The app provides access to over 100 networks, from lifestyle to news. If you like to watch movies for free, Crackle is a good choice, but Pluto is the closest to the cable experience without paying a dime.

How many channels can you get with a digital converter box?

An adapter from the cable provider was needed even for digital TVs if the company scrambled its digital signals to prevent piracy. A digital transport adapter will allow viewing of basic channels, often as many as 99, but not premium channels.

Will older TV work with antenna?

"Antennas made for analog TV signals work just as well for both digital and high definition signals. It's incorrect to claim that you need a special antenna," says Hay.

Why can't I get signal on my TV?

Check the cable connections between the TV and your video device or receiver. Change the channel or try a different input device or movie. The received signal may be weak. If your TV uses a cable or satellite box, you may need to contact your service provider for further assistance in improving the signal strength.

Are all TV channels digital now?

All TV broadcasts have gone digital, meaning those old rabbit ears are useless. If you want access to the free channels in your area, it's time to use an HDTV antenna.

How do you hook up a converter box to a flat screen TV?

Using the coaxial wire that comes with your Converter Box, plug one end into the “Out To TV (RF)” port on the Converter Box. Plug the other end into the “Antenna In (RF)” port on your TV. Plug the power cords on your Converter Box and TV into a power outlet, and turn on your TV and Converter Box.

What channels can I pick up with an antenna in my area?

An antenna is a great way to watch 100% free HD TV from networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. Not only that, but in many areas you will also find networks like PBS, The CW, Comet, Buzzr, MeTV, and so many more.

How do I get a converter box?

If you have difficulty finding a digital converter box, contact local used electronics stores, junk yards, recycling centers and thrift shops. Although these businesses typically sell electronics, the owner at one might give you a DTA box or agree to an exchange depending on your situation.

Can a DirecTV receiver be used as a converter box?

Watch location stations with DirecTV. DirecTV satellite receivers act as a digital converter box if you use an analog television. With the DirecTV receiver you can obtain on-air signals. These are your local channels such as CBS, ABC, FOX and NBC.

What can be used as a converter box?