Dave's Download

Get Your Free DTV and Cancel Cable

By David LaGesse

Posted: August 13, 2008

A reader recently sent a link to a site that has been put up, CancelCable.com, with tips and instructions for how to do away with cable or satellite bills while still getting good TV reception. It's an argument I've also made—that new digital broadcasts, combined with fast-growing online services, can give you much of what cable offers at no cost.

It's still a bit of a hassle, so the tips are welcome. CancelCable.com also offers a directory of online offerings that's helpful. We'll just hope they keep it up to date.

Not as hard as you might think.

Antenna systems are quite inexpensive (think $45 for a adequate suburban antenna if you buy it on-line). The right to put an antenna on a residence you own or control is protected by Federal law (1996 telecomunications act). You should be able to distribute the signal to various televisions using distribution amplifiers through your existing cable TV cables, and converter boxes are $50 or less. This all assumes that you have access to an alternative ISP. My parents, who live in rural Nebraska, have fiberoptic telephone lines right up to their basement. Meanwhile, in my suburban location, I'm limited to 1.5 Mbps DSL if I don't use cable. But internet through the public libary's wi-fi is free, I have access to a T1 line at work, and netflixs is only $9-$17 a month.

Dan R. of CO @ Mar 24, 2009 16:45:31 PM

no thanks

Unfortunately until I can get Fox News Network, NGEO, APL, and the History channel this won't work for me. I hate paying the bill but must admit I am getting value for it, and cable comapnies are the best ISPs out there for most of us.

Jim of PA @ Sep 16, 2008 08:27:13 AM

HD antenna in the attic

OK for local TV, but no internet.

HillbillyBill of TN @ Aug 14, 2008 14:55:47 PM

Add Your Thoughts
About You

advertisement

Dave's Download

Our in-house gadget guru, Senior Writer David LaGesse, checks out the latest technologies and gizmos, from computer software to GPS systems -- and reports back to you in plain English.


Dave's Download PodcastiTunes icon

advertisement

Subscribe

U.S. News Digital Weekly

A weekly insider's guide to politics and policy — in a multimedia, digital format. 52 issues for $19.95!

U.S. News & World Report

6 months of U.S. News & World Report's print edition for only $15. Save up to 67% off the cover price!