by Jennifer Claerr

Created on: May 23, 2009

There are times when even the most powerful antenna may fail to receive digital TV signals properly. Unlike analog television signals, when digital television signals become too weak, they don't develop snow and ghosts. Instead, the digital signal pixelates or cuts out entirely. There are several different inexpensive and simple methods you can use to solve these problems with your digital television signal strength.

Increase Digital TV Signal Strength: Myths and Misconceptions

Many people believe that you need an "HDTV" antenna to pick up digital television signals. The truth is, you don't need a special antenna to receive either digital or HD signals. While there are some antennas that are built to be more efficient in receiving digital and HD television transmissions, any old antenna will work. If you've been using an antenna to receive analog television signals, try using it to receive digital television. You can always replace the antenna if it isn't powerful enough.

Increase Digital TV Signal Strength: Choosing an Antenna

The right antenna to receive digital signals depends on many factors. How close you are to the source of programming will affect the strength of the television signal. Also, the terrain and other buildings near you may block and reflect digital television signals. If you live in the city near the source of the television signal, an indoor antenna may pick up the signals perfectly well. If you live in a rural area or if you are far away from your local television stations, getting an outdoor antenna may help to boost the transmission. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor, you will need an amplified antenna in most cases to get the best reception.

Increase Digital TV Signal Strength: Connect the Cables

If you're using a DTV converter box with an analog television, line the antenna's coaxial cable into the DTV converter's coaxial input. If you have a digital television, line the antenna directly into the coaxial input of the TV. Other connection types include S-Video, HDMI and RCA. However, only a coaxial cable can carry a radio frequency (RF) from the antenna to the television equipment.

Increase Digital TV Signal Strength: Tips and Tricks

When working with an indoor antenna, there are a few things you can do to improve the signal reception. Telescope the antenna out as far as it will go. Place the antenna as high up in the air as possible. Use whatever furniture, brackets or other supports you have available. Also, create a loop

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