How to Convert a Rooftop Antenna to Digital Reception

By Amanda C. Kooser

FM antennas need to be grounded for optimal operation.
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Digital television has replaced analog, but many households are still working out the best way to receive over-the-air broadcasts. For homes that already have a rooftop antenna in place, that same antenna can usually be used for digital reception with just a few adjustments. This works for televisions with built-in HD tuners as well as for older analog sets that require a converter box to receive digital signals.

Step 1

Install a twin-lead adapter if needed. Check whether the end of the antenna cable has two flat u-shaped connectors. Place the u-shaped connectors under the screws on the adapter side-by-side and then tighten the screws for a snug fit. If your antenna already has a round coaxial connector at the end of the cable, you can skip this step.

Step 2

Locate the antenna "in" coaxial port on the back of your HDTV or on your digital-to-analog converter box. Plug the antenna cable into this port. You may need to screw it into place in a clockwise direction.

Step 3

Turn on the television and the converter box (if needed) and scan for available channels.

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