When purchasing an HDTV, these designations are related to the tuners included or not included in your HDTV.  

    NTSC = Your old TV = Analog signal tuner = antenna = ghosting = static

     The old analog signal that will cease on February 17th, 2009

   ATSC = New OTA Digital tuner = Free HDTV from your old antenna

     The new way to watch high quality digital and HDTV using only your old antenna. (If you live within approximately 60 miles of a major metropolitan area.)

   QAM = Cable company digital tuner

     This tuner allows you to receive and view un-scrambled digital cable without a "set-top box" or receiver.

   What does this really mean to me?

     Get a TV with the ATSC (digital tuner) so you can get your local digital broadcasts including HDTV, FREE from your antenna. (It will usually come with the NTSC tuner, too.) If you are a "die-hard" cable fan, the QAM tuner would be good.

What do you want to know? Ask highdefjeff

Become a part of

THE Digital

Television Community!

Visit DTVUSA Forum

and get the help

you need!

You have a right to an antenna!

The rule prohibits most restrictions that: (1) unreasonably delay or prevent installation, maintenance or use; (2) unreasonably increase the cost of installation, maintenance or use; or (3) preclude reception of an acceptable quality signal.

Q: Who do I call if my town, community association or landlord is enforcing an invalid restriction?
A: Call the Federal Communications Commission at (888) CALLFCC (888-225-5322), which is a toll-free number, or 202-418-7096, which is not toll-free. Some assistance may also be available from the direct broadcast satellite company, broadband radio service provider, television broadcast station, or fixed wireless company whose service is desired.

Over-the-Air Reception Devices Rule

Send questions or comments about this web site.

Copyright © 2009 WOWVision! Ministries Last modified: 01/16/10