• A conventional VHF/UHF antenna.tv antennas image by JoLin from Fotolia.com
  
  In 2009, American television stations switched from analog to digital broadcasts. Channels are still broadcast by the same radio waves, allowing viewers to continue using their original antennas. However, the channels are being broadcast in a different format, so viewers who want to receive their television broadcasts over the air need to have a digital tuner installed in their television or an analog-to-digital converter box. The best antenna for you is determined by the broadcast format in your area.
  
  

Local Channels

• Antennas are designed to receive either channels 2-13 in the VHF range or 14-51 in the UHF range. Most DTV channels broadcast in the UHF range, but some use the VHF range. Some antennas are combined antennas which can receive VHF and UHF signals, but most specialize in one or the other. Before purchasing an antenna, check your local broadcast stations to determine on which channels they are broadcasting .
  
  

Strong Color Zones

• The Consumer Electronics Association uses a color guide to identify your home's reception for any given channel. You can perform a search using your home address and use the results to determine what kind of antenna you need to receive each station in your area. Channels rated in yellow for your location have a very high signal strength and can typically be received on a small omni-directional indoor antenna. Green channels also have high signal strength but require a slightly larger omni-directional antenna that may have to be installed outdoors. Light green channels require omni-directional outdoor antennas.
  
  

Poor Color Zones

• Red channels are blocked by an obstruction and require a medium-sized directional antenna for high quality reception. Directional antennas must be directly calibrated to face toward the station's transmission point. Blue channels are blocked by an obstruction and are also either distant or on a weak transmission. Blue channels can still be received but they either require a large directional antenna or an amplified medium directional antenna for best reception. Violet and pink channels are the most distant. They require large roof-mounted directional antennas with amplifiers for proper reception. These antennas typically must be professionally installed.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Consider nearby buildings and objects when selecting your antenna. If your home is surrounded by tall buildings or if there is a large city between a station's transmission tower and your antenna, your reception will suffer. You can improve reception by mounting your antenna on your roof or on a pole next to your home. To avoid damage to your home, consult a professional before attempting this type of installation. A large distance between your antenna and your television may also degrade your signal quality. When possible, attempt to install your DTV antenna as close to your television or tuner as possible.