Staying connected during severe weather

By Joel Craig, News 9 Contributor

Changing over to broadcast TV during inclement weather is quick and simple with only a few minutes of advanced preparation and you only have to do this once.

Both of these quick switchovers will require an indoor antenna. A simple set of inexpensive rabbit ears will work or if you like you can purchase a more sophisticated amplified antenna - which will generally give you the overall best picture.

Quick switch number one is to buy a couple of push-on F-connectors. The antenna input of most TVs uses this type of connection. If you've every screwed on or off one of these connectors you know how frustrating they can be, especially when you're reaching behind the TV. Unscrew the cable or satellite cable going into your TV. Screw the push-on F-connector to the cable then simply push the new connector back on to the antenna connection.

Next, screw one on to your indoor antenna and keep the antenna handy for when you need it. If the cable or satellite goes out it will be easy to just pull the cable out and push-on the cable for the indoor antenna.

Sometimes it's not easy to get behind your television. Quick switch number two uses a little box known as an A/B switch. For this you'll also need an additional coax cable.

You connect the cable or satellite cable that would normally go to your TV to the ‘A' position of switch box. Connect your indoor antenna to the ‘B' position. Lastly, you'll connect from the center position of the switch box to the TV's antenna input.

When things are normal just leave the switch box in the ‘A' position. When you need it just slide the switch or press the ‘B' button, depending on the switch you purchased, and you're on-air.

On February 17, 2009, TV goes all digital so you'll probably also need a converter box.