What is Cord-Cutting
Cord-cutting is the industry term that refers to viewers that have cancelled their paid cable or satellite TV service in exchange for FREE over-the-air, broadcast television received with an antenna (similar to broadcast radio)and often combine low-cost streaming services like Netflix, HBO Go, Hulu, Amazon, Vudu and others and/or free streaming services like YouTube.
Are there any monthly fees associated with my service?
There are NEVER any monthly fees associated with broadcast TV service. Think of Broadcast TV is to Cable & Satellite as Radio is to XM & Sirius. The broadcast is free and all you pay for is the one time cost for the antenna and installation fee.
What channels, networks and shows do I get with Free TV?
Free over-the-air broadcast TV offers a wide variety of television networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CW, and more! A full list and description of the broadcast channels available in your area can be found on our
Channel Guide page. Search for your favorite show or see what’s on by visiting our interactive online
TV Guide.
Do I have to get rid of my cable or Satellite TV?
No, absolutely not. If you’re not certain that Free TV is for you or if you just can’t go without your favorite cable networks – no problem! Your antenna can be installed along with your cable or satellite service, thereby expanding your viewing options!
Is there a difference between ‘cable networks’ and ‘broadcast networks’?
Yes. Cable networks such as Fox News, ESPN, USA Network, TBS, HGTV, Discovery Channel, and the Disney Channel will typically not be found on Free TV. On the flip side, many free broadcast TV networks such as, Buzzr TV, Justice Network, and Newsmax, may not be found on cable and satellite.
What if I still want my favorite network like the Golf Chanel or ESPN?
Free TV offers a wide variety of sports programming on major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, as well as, dedicated broadcast sports networks such as Tuff TV and Untamed Sports. However, the Golf Channel and ESPN are cable/satellite sports networks that are not available on Free TV, but may be viewed using their respective streaming apps when using a streaming media player.
What exactly is Broadcast TV vs. Cable or Satellite?
While broadcast, cable, and satellite TV all operate by receiving digital audio/video signals via satellite, broadcast television is transmitted free over-the-air, whereas cable and satellite are paid services. Cable and satellite enjoyed much growth in the 1980s and 1990s as they offered unique paid cable/satellite TV networks that were not available on broadcast television. After the 2009 digital conversion, all broadcasters and program creators were required to switch to digital broadcasts (vs analog) to free up much need bandwidth to accommodate the growing mobile phone industry. Broadcasters began to see opportunities for growth by offering new networks on multiple digital sub-channels in the place of one analog channel. For example, a broadcaster can now offer ABC on channel 5 (5.1), Livewell Network on channel 5.2, Create Network on 5.3, and so on. This revolution in television has given way to all new television networks that are being launched all around the country and far more FREE TV program options than ever before! Check out our
Channel Guide and
TV Guide pages to see what’s available in the Fresno/Clovis area!
If I have streaming TV like Hulu or Netflix, will the antenna affect anything?
Not at all! As a matter of fact, studies have found that most Free TV viewers also watch their favorite movies, documentaries, and series via streaming media. If you’re a streaming media fan, then you’re already half-way there to becoming a full-fledged cord-cutter!
Can I use a DVR with my new antenna?
IIf you are currently leasing/renting your DVR from you cable/satellite provider, unless you are able back your recordings to an external drive, you will most likely lose all your content when you return the devise to your cable or satellite TV provider. If you own your DVR and purchased it to record cable and satellite programs, you may be able keep it and use it to play back your recordings. Most cable/satellite DVRs are not capable of recording broadcast signals, therefore you will need to purchase a DVR that is designed for recording broadcast TV signals. Many DVRs, such as the DVR+ by Channel Master allow you to connect an external hard-drive, thereby offering you virtually unlimited storage capacity. When compared with the rental cost and pro/cons of cable/satellite DVRs, broadcast DVRs such as the DVR+ offer viewers a much more affordable and long-term solution to recording your favorite Free TV programming!
