A:AnswerTypically, most homes have a cable splitter in the attic (or where the main coaxial cable comes into the house) that distributes a signal thought the house to all the rooms that are wired for cable. The main cable comes into the house and is connected to a box that has various coaxial cables going out to each room. You can connect an outdoor quality antenna to this box in place of the main cable input and it will send the antenna signal to all your TVs. Your new antenna becomes the main signal in at this point replacing the cable company. Each TV has it's own tuner so separate programming is no problem. All you have to do is run an "auto scan" from your individual tv's set-up menu and that's it. If you want an streaming option like FireTV or Apple TV or Roku, etc., you'll need a separate device for each tv and a decent wifi signal.
A:AnswerI've been researching "cutting the cord." My son is a techie but he's 2000 miles away. A media-streaming device-like Roku, Apple TV, Firestick etc--needs to access the internet to get the programs. Usually folks buy a subscription like Amazon's Firestick is hooked up with DISH, Roku has DirectTV, etc. There's a few other "media boxes" like Epic's ATVB with their own "maintenance" or subscription services. None of these "allow" DVR recordings, but the latter have USB ports for external drives, so a DVR or recording for personal use can be possible. Most say, you don't need it, as the programming is "stored in the cloud" and all you need to do is say, "I want 2006 Program X" or any movie, and bring up the series.
I haven't tried this yet but think I've understood it. My brilliant son uses "Raspberry Pi", which is a low-cost streaming device without any subscription where you get all this for free.
A:AnswerI used Geek squad to install my fire stick and rabbit ears after discussion with Best Buy sales person about the best equipment. The Geek squad guy took care of everything about the installation. I am quite happy with the equipment and installation.
A:AnswerThanks, Bill. Yes, that's probably what is required--researching all the individual sites of the streaming services. It would be great if there was some clearinghouse site that puts it all together with updated information (since all this is very much in constant flux). There was an article in Washington Post a while back that allowed you to input information about channels desired, and it would make recommendations. But I tried it, and the info turned out to be inaccurate once I tried to verify on the individual provider sites in question.
If anyone else knows of another option, do chime in, please!
A:AnswerGeek Squad only does a basic install. No outdoor or attic install. Basically set you up and install antenna in an area remotely close to the TV. Though depending on installer he may access points beyond the simple install for a tip.
A:AnswerYes. You will need a cable splitter. If you have more than 3 tvs you will also require an antenna booster or amplifier. This will require an outlet which is rearly found in the attic.