Antenna users: Here’s why you will need to rescan your TV on June 21
If you use a TV antenna, changes are coming.
A new legal mandate is requiring tv stations nationwide to change frequencies. On June 21, a rescan on your tv antenna will be required to continue to receive local programming.
No new equipment and no new upgrades are needed for this change.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) broke down the change, which will affect over 72 million Americans and plenty of viewers right here in the Coachella Valley:
What’s Happening
Many over-the-air TV channels across the U.S. will be changing frequencies to help open up airwaves for new high-speed wireless services. The actual channel number on your TV will not change. After the TV is rescanned, it will be the same as before.
Why It Matters
A change in frequency impacts how a channel is received over the air by your TV. If you watch free over-the-air television with an antenna, you will need to rescan your TV set each time a station moves to a new frequency to be sure your TV recognizes the new frequency when you tune to that channel.
When to Rescan
Some local TV channels will be changing frequencies in phases through mid-2020. However, because TV channels are moving at different times, you may need to rescan your TV set more than once. Stay tuned to your local channels for information on when to rescan, as broadcasters will give viewers at least 30 days notice.
Whether or not your local TV stations are changing, it is a good idea to rescan periodically – if you haven’t scanned your TV recently, you might be surprised at how many stations are now available.
Refer to our “Remember to Rescan” video and instructions to learn how to rescan your TV.
Have questions?
Viewers who need assistance may also contact the FCC call center toll-free by dialing 1-888-CALLFCC (1-888-225-5322) and pressing “6” to speak to a help desk representative. The call center is staffed from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Eastern time, seven days a week, to enable consumers throughout the country to obtain assistance during evening and weekend hours.
