RVs and Digital TV
If you have an RV or a boat with an analog TV set, because of the Digital Transition that occured on June 12, 2009, you need to take action if you want to continue to receive free over-the-air TV. On June 2009, all full-power TV stations switched to all digital broadcasting. That means that if you receive TV signals with an antenna and have an analog TV set without a digital tuner ( click here to determine if you do ), you will not be able to receive the new digital signals.
Here are your options:
A Digital TV set with a built-in digital tuner can receive over-the-air digital signals without a digital to analog converter box . There may be a space issue because Digital TVs are usually widescreen and will take up more room in your trailer or Motorhome.
A Portable Digital TV is also a good option.
A digital to analog converter box changes the new digital TV signal into an analog signal so your TV can display the broadcast. The government has set up a coupon program that allows all households in America to apply for up to two $40 coupons towards the purchase of up to two converter boxes.
Many recreational vehicles only have 12-volt power available. If this is your case, you may want to buy a converter box that is adaptable to 12-volts. Check our comparison chart for the boxes are 12-volt adaptable. Because most TV sets are built into trailers, campers and boats, there is a space issue. The converter box needs to be placed near the TV set and a power outlet.
Please keep in mind that not all TV stations are required to switch to all digital. Low-power and translator stations can remain analog. It is a good idea for RVers who vacation all over the country, to buy a converter box with analog pass-through so you can receive both analog and digital channels.
RVers that are used to watching snowy channels with poor sound, interference and limited programs should enjoy the new digital signals. With Digital TV, not only will you get a clear picture and better sound, you will also be able to receive local channels, weather, news, PBS and more. On the other hand, the biggest problem with digital reception is in the "fringe areas". In these areas, analog TV reception will sometimes still be able to receive a snowy but watchable picture with sound. In these same areas, a Digital TV set or an analog TV using a converter box may get not receive any picture at all. Unfortunately, Digital TV is all or nothing .
What if I connect to CABLE while RVing? Depending on where you travel in the country, you may find that the Cable company at your favorite campground has switched from analog to digital cable. If you visit parks with Cable, you may want to buy a Digital TV with an ATSC tuner for over-the-air reception and a QAM tuner for unencrypted cable channels. See our Cable page for more information.
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