Download Article
Written byJack Lloyd
Last Updated: March 29, 2024
Download Article
- Preparing Your Equipment |
- Connecting and Adjusting |
- |
- Tips |
- Warnings
This wikiHow teaches you how to select and set up an antenna for your TV.
How do I get my TV to connect to an antenna?
Connect the antenna to the input port. Find the antenna port on the back of your TV, then plug in the antenna and tighten the connector (if possible). If you're using an extension cable, connect the cable to the antenna as well as the TV's input port.
Part 1
Part 1 of 2:
Preparing Your Equipment
Download Article
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/59\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-1-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-1-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
1
Determine your television's antenna connector type. Virtually every TV has an antenna input on the back or side; this is where you'll plug in the antenna. There are two main versions of this input:
- Coaxial RF - Resembles a threaded cylinder with a hole in the middle. This type of connector is the standard for most modern TVs.
- IEC - Resembles a smooth cylinder with a smaller cylinder inside of it. You may find this connection on old CRT TVs.
- Check your TV's manual or look up its model number online to double-check the antenna type.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
2
Figure out the location of the nearest broadcast station. You can typically do this by typing in your location and "tv broadcast station" into Google. This will give you an idea of the type of antenna that you'll need; for example, if the closest station is relatively far away, a standard set of "rabbit ears" won't be ideal.
- You can also enter your address into a site like http://antennaweb.org/Address to see a map of nearby broadcast stations.
- Knowing where the broadcast station is will also ensure that you know which direction to face the antenna if necessary.
Advertisem*nt
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
3
Buy an antenna for your TV. If you don't already have an antenna—or if you need a more powerful one—buy one online or in a tech department store. You have a few options when it comes to antennae:[1]
- Flat - The most recent rendition of antennae, a flat antenna requires very little fine-tuning after being plugged in next to the TV. Flat antennae also have superior range and reception in relation to other more traditional antennae.
- "Rabbit ears" - A set of two telescoping antennae, the "rabbit ears" antenna set is one of the most common types used in households. These usually go behind the TV. The "rabbit ears" set is fine if you're close to a broadcast station.
- Whip - One telescoping antenna. Whip antennae are similar to "rabbit ears" antennae in function and placement.
- Outdoor (UHF) - Large, multi-element antennae that are usually mounted on the roof or in the attic. These are ideal for making long-range connections if you live in a remote location.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-4-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-4-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
4
Buy an extension cable if necessary. Especially if you're mounting an antenna outside, you'll need a coaxial cable that can reach from the antenna to your TV. You can usually find these online or in tech stores.
- You may want to buy a small extension cable for an indoor antenna if your TV doesn't have enough space for an antenna behind it.
Advertisem*nt
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:
Connecting and Adjusting
Download Article
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-5-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-5-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-5-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-5-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
1
Turn off and unplug your TV. Press your TV's "Power" button, then remove the plug from the back of the TV or from its electrical outlet. This will prevent you from accidentally harming your TV or antenna.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-6-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-6-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
2
Connect the antenna to the input port. Find the antenna port on the back of your TV, then plug in the antenna and tighten the connector (if possible).
See AlsoThe Right TV Antenna - All Points CommunicationsTricks to fix pixelationBest TV Antennas of 2024When I watch TV my picture reception is pixelated – what is wrong?- If you're using an extension cable, connect the cable to the antenna as well as the TV's input port.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-7-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-7-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/57\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-7-Version-4.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-7-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
3
Plug back in your TV and turn it on. Depending on your current channel, you may already be receiving broadcasts from local stations.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
4
Scan for channels. This step will vary from TV to TV, so consult your TV's manual or online instructions for how to do this. In general, though, setting your TV's input to "TV" and flipping through channels should do the trick.
- If you know your local channels' exact numbers, try navigating to one of them with your TV's input set to "TV".
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-9.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
5
Adjust your antenna as needed. If you have a directional antenna, such as a "rabbit ears" set or a roof-mounted antenna, you'll want to point it toward the nearest broadcast station. You may also need to move items in your home out of the way of the antenna's connection path.
- Adjusting your antenna is a trial-and-error experience, so don't worry about getting it right on the first try.
- Generally speaking, you shouldn't have to adjust a flat antenna very much, since they're both more powerful than traditional antennae and multi-directional.
- {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Final.jpg\/v4-460px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Final.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Final.jpg\/aid3353-v4-728px-Hook-Up-a-TV-Antenna-Final.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
6
Finished.
Advertisem*nt
Community Q&A
Search
Question
What determines if I need a digital converter box or not?
Community Answer
If your TV hasn't got a digital tuner built in (check your model's specifications in the manual or online), you need a converter box. However, if your TV is digital-ready, you can just hook up the aerial straight to the TV.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support wikiHowYesNo
Not Helpful 44Helpful 83
Question
How do I hook up an antenna to a flat screen TV with a VHF connector?
Community Answer
First, check to make sure your TV can support VHF. If it can, buy a VHF to HDMI/VGA/DVI adapter and connect cables correspondingly.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support wikiHowYesNo
Not Helpful 38Helpful 72
Question
Can I connect a Terk Outdoor antenna to the outside of my house by disconnecting the existing Time Warner connection and hooking my antenna to their connection and support two televisions?
Community Answer
Yes you can! As long as you program each TV. The signal may not be as strong, though.
Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support wikiHowYesNo
Not Helpful 11Helpful 24
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Advertisem*nt
Tips
If you constantly have to readjust your roof-mounted antenna, you can buy an electric rotor that allows you to adjust the antenna from the comfort of your home.
Thanks
Helpful1Not Helpful0
The RF input on your TV is the same input that you use for cable TV.
Thanks
Helpful1Not Helpful1
If you're running a cable outside or through your house, make sure that the cable is shielded. This will ensure a higher level of quality on your TV, and the cable will be less prone to breaking or succumbing to the elements.
Thanks
Helpful0Not Helpful0
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Submit
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisem*nt
Warnings
Avoid any set-top antenna that is shaped like a satellite dish and claims to pull in hundreds of channels with no cable fees using "RF technology"—that is just a deceptive way of describing any antenna. You can only receive the broadcast channels within range.
Thanks
Helpful5Not Helpful6
Advertisem*nt
You Might Also Like
Advertisem*nt
About This Article
Written by:
Jack Lloyd
wikiHow Technology Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jack Lloyd. Jack Lloyd is a Technology Writer and Editor for wikiHow. He has over two years of experience writing and editing technology-related articles. He is technology enthusiast and an English teacher. This article has been viewed 1,508,138 times.
How helpful is this?
Co-authors: 48
Updated: March 29, 2024
Views:1,508,138
Categories: Antennas
Article SummaryX
To hook up an indoor TV antenna, start by visiting a site like antennaweb.org to determine which direction you should face the antenna, if necessary. Next, turn off and unplug your TV before connecting the antenna cable to the back of the TV. Then, plug your TV back in, turn it on, and scan for channels according to the instructions in your TV's manual. If you have trouble picking up any channels, try moving items out of the way that may be in the antenna's connection path. For tips on how to pick the right type of antenna for your needs, read on!
Did this summary help you?
In other languages
- Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,508,138 times.