Question local broadcast TV constant shifting - Why??

[oldtimer114]

My TV systems are pretty basic. My 1st gen flat screen Emerson TV (made before Smart TV's were available) is hooked to a digital antenna on the roof and to a Roku box. I watch only the free Roku programing. I don't have any premium TV services at all. But one thing has bothered me since the switch to digital TV and I can't find the reason for it.
Why are the local TV stations constantly shifting channels, forcing me to rescan my TV about every 2-3 months? Granted we gain or lose some of the lessor stations. But why does WFAA change from channel 4.1 to channel 21.2 to channel 8.1 to channel 61.1 and back to channel 4.5? All of my local channels, except PBS, have changed channels at least 3 times in the past 18 months. And no one can tell me why?
I understand that there is a new broadcast TV system out (Next Gen TV) but implementing that would only justify 1 channel change. Not 4 or 5 in 18 months. What's going on?

 

[Wolfshadw]

Interestingly, when I look up WFAA, wiki states that the digital and virtual channels are both 8 (or 8.1). Not sure why you are getting it on channel 4.5 and I don't even see a channel 61 for your area.

Just a WAG here, but it might be your rooftop antenna getting signals crossed/lost. I'd probably check with the station to see if they offer an alternate UHF channel (unlikely). If they don't, then this issue is likely on your end. Either your TV is getting on in years and for some reason cannot maintain it's channel lineup or something with your antenna.

Just an FYI, I have a very similar set up as you. Older (non-smart 1080p TV) connected with a Roku device (no premiums) and an indoor digital antenna. In the three years I've had this setup, I don't recall ever seeing a channel swap like you're describing.

-Wolf sends

 

[MikeTaku]

My TV systems are pretty basic. My 1st gen flat screen Emerson TV (made before Smart TV's were available) is hooked to a digital antenna on the roof and to a Roku box. I watch only the free Roku programing. I don't have any premium TV services at all. But one thing has bothered me since the switch to digital TV and I can't find the reason for it.
Why are the local TV stations constantly shifting channels, forcing me to rescan my TV about every 2-3 months? Granted we gain or lose some of the lessor stations. But why does WFAA change from channel 4.1 to channel 21.2 to channel 8.1 to channel 61.1 and back to channel 4.5? All of my local channels, except PBS, have changed channels at least 3 times in the past 18 months. And no one can tell me why?
I understand that there is a new broadcast TV system out (Next Gen TV) but implementing that would only justify 1 channel change. Not 4 or 5 in 18 months. What's going on?

Hi there,

I want to say that the frequent channel changes on your TV are likely due to the FCC’s spectrum repacking mandate, which reallocates broadcast frequencies to make room for wireless services like 5G.

Additionally, the gradual rollout of NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) and shared spectrum agreements among stations caused local channels to shift. These changes require periodic rescanning to keep your channels updated.

Thanks,
Mike Taku.

 

[oldtimer114]

Hi there,

I want to say that the frequent channel changes on your TV are likely due to the FCC’s spectrum repacking mandate, which reallocates broadcast frequencies to make room for wireless services like 5G.

Additionally, the gradual rollout of NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) and shared spectrum agreements among stations caused local channels to shift. These changes require periodic rescanning to keep your channels updated.

Thanks,
Mike Taku.

I would have thought the repacking & NexGen changes would have already been implemented by now as they have been in place for a number of years. Or does part of the NextGen rollout require constant changes forever?

In researching this further, I find the several of the TV stations in my area have multiple transmission locations and on multiple freqs. This is especially true of the major, national network supported stations. So my having to rescan may have as much to do with weather and which locations is transmitting the strongest on that day and time. Also, I live in an area with a lot of trees which interfere with digital signals in a wide arc from northwest to northeast, where all of the signals come from. The only true solution to this is use of an antenna tower at least 60 ft tall. And my HOA says this is not acceptable.

Note: the specific freqs I listed in my original posting were totally arbitrary for the purpose of example. No one broadcasts in my area on channels 61.1-61.9. How old is that wiki list? I have concluded that digital staion lists older than 6 months are very probably out of date.