How to tell difference between Digital Antenna's and regular antenna's?

Question

Since the networks have converted to Digital signals, even I have purchased a powered, signal-boosted, antenna, to work with my converter box.

The problem is that, as my neighbors have started converting to digital, stores, large, and small, including several chain stores, have been selling my neighbors standard antenna's, claiming there is NO difference between the antenna's.

One chain store actually told my neighbor, right in front of me, that Digital-ready antenna's dont mark the word "Digital" on their packages.

So far, every Digital Antenna I have seen, clearly states, on the box Digital Ready antenna.

Are there, as these staff members say, some digital antenna's, which DONT print Digital Ready on their boxes?

If there are, then HOW can a consumer know that they are buying the right antenna?

Isn't the phrase: Digital Ready one of the first things, that antenna buyers look for, on a product container?

Answer 1

"Digital Antenna's and regular antenna's" OK, everybody else has straightened you out about digital vs. analog. Why did you stick those apostrophes in your first sentence?

Answer 2

As long as the antenna resonates at the proper VHF/UHF carrier wave frequencies (which really haven't changed with the switch to digital.....) you're good to go. I'm still using the same antenna that's been in my attic since 1985. If your antenna gave you a decent picture before digital, it should work just fine with a digital TV or a converter box.



"Digital Ready", when referencing an antenna is nothing but Marketing BS.



Of more importance is your location with respect to the broadcast stations. If you're close enough, an indoor set top antenna may be adequate, farther away, you'll need a more elaborate array higher up or outside. (see links below for guidance) You might also need a rotor (aiming device) if some of your stations are at different points of the compass. As a point of reference, I live 25 miles west of Chicago and get a good signal with a standard VHF/UHF antenna in my attic. Any farther away, I'd need to amplify and/or mount it outside on the roof.

Answer 3

It makes ZERO different to antenna rather the signal is analog modulated or digital modulated. The entire idea of a "digital antenna" is itself a scam. There is no such thing. Your neighbors are right and you are the one who has been scammed.