Local TV channels
GermanM
Enthusiast - Level 1

Hi,

I currently have Internet services only with Verizon FiOS.

Since my TV is not in the best position, an indoor TV antenna is not working properly for us so I was exploring the possibility of getting the Local TV channels through Verizon.

I know you can get the "FiOS TV Local" which costs $12.99/month, the question is:

Does anybody know if Verizon encrypts these local channels?

They've offered me to get the HD digital adapter for an additional $11.99/month but if they're not encrypting/scrambling the local TV channels then I shouldn't need that.

Option B would be using the FiOS app for Xbox, in which case I know for sure I wouldn't need that adapter.

Thanks!

German

0 Likes
1 Solution

Correct answers
Re: Local TV channels
CRobGauth
Community Leader
Community Leader

You can get your local channels with a TV that has a QAM tuner.

View solution in original post

Re: Local TV channels
CRobGauth
Community Leader
Community Leader

You can get your local channels with a TV that has a QAM tuner.

Re: Local TV channels
GermanM
Enthusiast - Level 1

That's what I have and that was the answer I was looking for... so thanks! 🙂

I just wanted to make sure as I previously had Xfinity and I was doing the same thing until they encrypted the local channels and couldn't get to them anymore without their adaptor (which I never did)

Nothing says Verizon won't encrypt them in the future, but at least I won't have to pay extra in the meantime to get local channels.

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
CRobGauth
Community Leader
Community Leader

XFinity needed to encrypt becuase they can't stop you from stealing unencrypted channels.

Verizon can control TV output of the ONT remotely so no reason for them to do that.

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
GermanM
Enthusiast - Level 1

Well.. I'm trying to add FiOS TV Local and even though they're not encrypting these channels they still require me to rent at least one STB.

So, if I don't have a TV (just a computer) but I want to watch the local TV channels and buy the service from Verizon, you're obligated to rent a STB for an additional $12/month. I was actually planning on using the Roku player (as I don't have a coaxial outlet near the TV) so it's seems the only option is to rent the STB and leave it in the garage unplugged.

I don't know why I was expecting something different from Verizon, all the cable companies are the same.

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
tns2
Community Leader
Community Leader

You are not required to rent a box.  Although the average Verizon sales person is unaware of how to do this.

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
CRobGauth
Community Leader
Community Leader

Worst case is to rent it and then immediately return it.

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
_dot
Specialist - Level 1

how about an outdoor antenna? if you can use one at your location, you'll prob. find that an unamplified, outdoor vhf/uhf antenna gets great channel reception....cheaper than renting a box for a  year, (prob cheaper than renting for 6 months) BUT tv must have atsc tuner

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
GermanM
Enthusiast - Level 1

Yes, you are required to rent a box (I've spoken with 4 different sales persons). Even if you try to purchase it online, it's mandatory to select the amount of TVs, being "1" the minimum.

I finally decided to get a cheap SD digital adapter and asked for a return label.

I had to connect that in order to activate the TV service, after a minute I unplugged it and connected the coaxial directly to the TV and voile! It's working great!

0 Likes
Re: Local TV channels
tns2
Community Leader
Community Leader

As I said the Sales People are not aware of how to do this.  There is no requirement.  Many people dont use any Verizon boxes.  Some using only cards and some, like you, using nothing.

0 Likes