Distance From Transmission Tower
There isn’t a specific mileage that determines if an indoor antenna will work for you. If you live within the city limits or possibly the suburbs of the television station then you will likely be able to use an indoor antenna.
- Scenario: I live in a medium-sized market and use an indoor antenna. I get all of my OTA broadcast stations in digital high definition and analog without issue except for NBC, which is hit or miss with the signal.
Obstacles Between Antenna and Transmission Tower Obstacles can be mountains, hills, buildings, walls, doors, people walking in front of the antenna, etc. These create havoc with TV signals and impact the reliability in signal reception.
- Scenario: Reception for my local NBC station is hit or miss. But, I noticed that if I configure the ‘rabbit ears’ just right, get the right atmospheric conditions and open the front door or blinds then it comes in without issue. The door and blinds would be considered obstacles in my reception. Also, reception cuts in and out on many stations when someone walks in front of the antenna.
Therefore, when comparing indoor to outdoor antennas, indoor antennas typically:
- Have a shorter reception range
- Install easier
- Cost less
