How to Get Local Off-Air Channels

Local channels are usually provided by default. The locals you receive are determined entirely by current Nielsen ratings. Generally, you would receive the locals from the nearest large city or urban area.

With the launch of high definition, several local markets are providing local broadcasts of their channels as well. The HD offerings of many satellite and cable providers will normally carry the major Networks such as NBC, ABC, and FOX, but not the extended networks. Some of these networks may have several channels in HD such as 3-1, 3-2, 3-3, Etc. The availability of high definition broadcasts will vary based on geography. If you live in one of these markets, you will need high definition equipment to view the signal from the locals. This equipment is oftentimes provided at no additional cost from your provider, and you do not need to own a high definition television to view them. However, you may only receive one channel of each high definition affiliate.

You may be able to raise an antenna and pick up a signal free of charge from any affiliate station that your antenna has power to receive. The most important thing to remember here is that it must be a digital antenna. There are several models out there but all provide the same basic function. Most new model high definition equipment will allow you to connect this line to the receiver, and pull those channels into the program guide. At its most basic, this antenna is connected directly to the TV for broadcast. For this method to work, you must have an HD ready TV (remember all of the broadcasters have switched to a digital signal). You can identify some of the major networks you would expect to get with such a system at websites such as antenneaweb.org.

Contact your satellite or cable provider to see if you have an off-air system installed for a nominal cost. You should not expect monthly costs associated with off-air installations, and channels may vary. Research which channels are in your area before investing in an antenna installation or you may end up with overpriced rabbit ears. If the locals are currently provided by the satellite, you will need to look to another company to install the off-air system.