A digital TV receiver (often called a converter box or tuner) takes free over‑the‑air broadcast signals from an antenna and outputs them to your TV.

• What it does: Decodes digital broadcasts and sends video/audio via HDMI or RCA to your TV. Some models add DVR features using a USB drive.
• When you need one: Useful for TVs without a built‑in tuner, or when you want recording and pause features.
• Basic setup: Connect the antenna to the receiver, connect the receiver to your TV, select the input, and run an auto channel scan.
• What affects performance: Signal strength, distance to towers, and obstacles (buildings, trees). Results can vary by location and antenna placement.

The channels you’ll receive depend on your location, antenna type, and signal conditions. A converter box tunes whatever your antenna can receive.

• Common types of channels: Major local broadcast networks, public television, independent stations, and specialty subchannels (news, classic TV, weather, and more).
• What affects reception: Distance to broadcast towers, indoor vs. outdoor antenna, building materials, and terrain.
• Helpful tips: Try placing the antenna near a window or higher up, aim it toward towers, and perform a fresh channel scan after any antenna adjustment.
• Before you buy: Checking an online coverage map by ZIP code can provide a rough idea of what’s available in your area.

You have a few solid options, and the right pick depends on your TV and setup.

• Antenna + built‑in tuner: Many smart TVs include tuners; add an indoor or outdoor antenna and run a channel scan.
• External digital TV receiver: If your TV lacks a tuner, a converter box provides over‑the‑air channels and often HDMI output.
• Over‑the‑air DVR: Some DVRs capture antenna broadcasts and stream them to your TV over your home network.
• Streaming apps: Local station apps or live TV services may offer local channels in select markets; availability and fees vary.

Reception and app availability can differ by area, equipment, and internet speed.

There are several non‑cable ways to watch local broadcasts, each with different benefits.

• Indoor/outdoor antenna: Pulls in free over‑the‑air channels; performance varies by placement, distance, and obstacles.
• Digital TV converter box: Adds a tuner to older or tuner‑less TVs and outputs via HDMI or AV.
• Over‑the‑air DVR: Records antenna broadcasts and may stream them to TVs or mobile devices on your home network.
• USB TV tuner: Lets a computer or compatible device receive and record over‑the‑air channels.
• Signal finders/accessories: Tools and amplifiers can help aim antennas or strengthen signals where appropriate.

Channel availability and performance depend on your location and equipment setup.

Many converter boxes include a PVR/DVR function that records over‑the‑air channels to a USB drive.

• Check features: Look for “recording,” “PVR,” or “DVR” in the product description.
• Set up: Connect your antenna to the box, connect the box to your TV, run a channel scan, and plug in a compatible USB drive (format may be required per manual).
• Recording options: Use the remote’s record button or schedule recordings via the on‑screen guide if supported.
• Know the limits: Some boxes can only record the channel you’re watching, and recordings are typically viewable on the same device.

Recording quality and compatibility can vary by model and storage device.