To watch local channels on a Samsung TV, first connect an antenna to the ANT IN port on the TV, and then go to Broadcasting Settings to scan for channels.
Samsung Smart TVs can also be used to watch over-the-air channels without a subscription or internet connection. You will still be able to watch those channels in HD or 4K without having to worry about fees or renewals.
In this article, we will provide steps to set up an antenna with your Samsung TV and then scan for local channels from the settings menu. We will also look at some ways to watch local channels without an antenna.
How to Watch Local Channels on Samsung TV
Before you can watch local channels on your Samsung TV, you first need to purchase an antenna that will be plugged into the TV. The antenna receives over-the-air broadcast television signals from local television stations in your area.
You can either get an indoor antenna or an outdoor antenna. Indoor antennas are installed in your home and can be placed next to the television. They are ideal for cities and areas with high signal reception.
Outdoor antennas are installed outside your home in a higher location, and they are ideal for areas with low coverage.
Follow the steps below to connect an antenna and watch local channels on your Samsung TV.
Setting up the Antenna
- First, set up the antenna. Connect one end of the coax cable to the antenna if it is not already connected.
- Plug the antenna’s power adapter into a power outlet.
- Connect the other end of the coax cable to the ANT IN port on the back of your Samsung TV.
- Install the antenna in a high position. This will improve the signal.
Now that you have successfully installed and set up the antenna on your Samsung TV, the next step is finding local channels.
Scanning for Local Channels
Follow the steps below to scan for local channels on your Samsung television.
- First, use your Samsung TV remote to change the input source to TV.
- Once you are on the TV source, use the remote to go to Settings (All Settings).
- Navigate to Broadcasting, and select Auto Program.
- Select Start, and then select Air.
- Wait for the TV to scan for channels.
- Once the scan is completed, select Close.
You can now watch local channels on your Samsung TV. Just as we have stated in the steps, you first need to change your television input source to TV before you can have access to the broadcasting feature and scan for channels.
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How to Watch Local Channels on Samsung Smart TV Without Antenna
You can also watch local channels on your Samsung Smart TV without the need for an antenna. This is possible with some apps that are available on your Samsung TV.
1. Samsung TV Plus
Samsung TV Plus is a free TV streaming app that has been available on Samsung Smart TVs from 2016 to now. The app does not require any subscription or cable to work, so this is the ideal option for a free TV.
Here’s how to watch free channels on Samsung TV Plus:
- Press the Home button on your Samsung TV remote.
- Scroll through the list of available apps and select the Samsung TV Plus icon.
- Select any channel you want to watch for free.
2. Download Channel App
Some local channels, like NBC, FOX, PBS, and others, have standalone apps that are available to download from your TV’s app store.
- Press the Home button on your remote.
- Select Apps, and then select the Search icon in the top right.
- Type in the name of the app, and select Install.
Aside from downloading individual channels, you can download apps like Pluto TV or Xumo that also offer free access to some local channels like CBS, NBC, Local News, and so on.
The downside to most of these apps is that you will need a WiFi connection to use them, so if you want to watch those channels without the internet, an antenna is the best way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why can’t I get normal channels on my Samsung TV?
If you have connected an antenna to your Samsung TV and you still can’t watch local channels, then you might be using the wrong source.
Make sure the antenna is plugged into the ANT IN port on your TV and you’re on the TV input source. If you still can’t get normal channels, then position the antenna in a different location to get a better signal when scanning for channels.
Does Samsung TV Plus have local channels?
Yes, Samsung TV Plus has local channels. It offers 300+ live TV channels, all for free with no hidden charges. Samsung TV Plus is available on all Samsung Smart TVs.
How do I get my Samsung TV to recognize my antenna?
Make sure the coax cable is plugged into the ANT IN port on the TV. Depending on the type of antenna, you might need to plug it into a power outlet, so make sure you have done that.
Final Thoughts
At this point, you must have connected an antenna to your Samsung TV and are now watching your favorite local channels for free.
Thank you for reading. We have other related Samsung TV guides below.
Hey! I’m Louis, a Java Developer and Mobile App Developer who has an interest in smart home automation.
