TV antenna users: re-scan your TV channels

TV viewers using antennas to receive local channels will need to re-scan their TV set when these broadcasters change the frequency channel they transmit on in order to continue receiving these channels. It’s the same scan that you did to find your local channels when you set up your TV or converter box for the first time. This applies to all local TV broadcasters & is the result of re-packing the TV dial in order to make radio spectrum available for new wireless & digital services.  Some local TV channels will be changing frequencies in phases through mid-2020.  However, because TV channels are moving at different times, you may need to re-scan your TV set more than once. Stay tuned to local channels for information on when to re-scan, as broadcasters will give viewers at least 30 days notice.  The FCC have set up an interactive map & info page that lists all of our local TV channels, the current frequency/channel they broadcast on & the new channel they will be moving to.  Re-scanning only applies to people who receive their local channels using a TV antenna. Cable and satellite subscribers are not affected & do NOT need to make any changes.  Service providers will do it for you.  To use the FCC interactive guide, scroll down & enter your zip code into the search box & hit the “GO” button.

Author: Mike Cherry

retired broadcaster: on-air, MD, PD, asst PD, Prod Mgr, IT, station technician/engineer, pioneer Internet webcaster, station installation/maintenance; 12 years in commercial radio, 17 years volunteer in campus/community radio in B.C., Alberta & Wash. Amateur radio operator & "DXer" specializing in AM night-time DX, short-wave DX/listening & remote SDR DXing/listening

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Some comments may be held for moderation. (New users)

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.