WKAR-TV changed its broadcast frequency on May 29, 2018, as required by the FCC. If you're an antenna TV viewer, have rescanned for channels to tune in the new frequency, and are still not able to receive WKAR, here is some information that we hope can help you find WKAR or another PBS station broadcasting in your area.
WKAR-TV Coverage Area
The power level and the coverage pattern for WKAR-TV are essentially the same on new digital frequency 33 as on the previous digital frequency 40. The WKAR tower location has not changed, so distance and direction from your location remain the same as before the frequency change.
WKAR's new frequency and coverage area are assigned and regulated by the FCC. There are no additional changes planned at this time.
What's Different
The difference between previous frequency 40 and current frequency 33 is the wavelength of the signal. This difference can affect how the signal bounces off buildings near you (called multipath interference) or passes by obstacles such as tree foliage.
At your location, you may be experiencing interference at digital channel 33 that was not a problem for channel 40.
Here are some areas to investigate. You may need to consult with an antenna TV technician to resolve these issues.
Antennas
We always recommend outdoor antennas, and suggest the website antennaweb.org for antenna selection guidance.
Antennas should be aimed toward our tower location in Okemos. View on Google Map
Antenna Location
If you have an indoor antenna, try moving it to a different location in the room.
Attenuator or Signal Filter
Your antenna installation could include an attenuator or signal filter that was effective at eliminating interference on frequency 40, but not the new frequency 33.
Gain Ampilifier
You may have a powered gain amplifier that is boosting interference rather than improving your signal on frequency 33. Try removing (bypassing) the amplifier and see if reception improves.
Cabling and Connectors
Your cabling and connectors could be more susceptible to interference at frequency 33 than 40.
Check that your cabling does not include any loops of excess cable. If you have multiple cable connectors in your cable run, wherever possible run longer lengths of one cable rather than multiple lengths joined with connectors. Check that the connectors are firm.
Other PBS Alternatives
If you are not able to resolve these issues to receive WKAR-TV, we hope that you can receive another PBS station reaching your area.
To locate stations, visit the FCC's DTV coverage page:
www.fcc.gov/media/engineering/dtvmaps
Please note that signal strength calculations assume an outdoor antenna 30 feet above ground level. Actual reception quality may vary significantly for viewers using an indoor antenna.
Actual signal strength may vary based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, building construction, neighboring buildings and trees, weather, and specific reception hardware. Your signal strength may be significantly lower in extremely hilly areas.
updated 1/4/19