Thomson Bows RCA HDTV Antennas

INDIANAPOLIS — Influenced by growing sales of high-definition televisions, Thomson is introducing a new line of RCA antennas designed to enhance reception for over-the-air HDTV signals. Products include both outdoor and indoor models.

RCA ANT3900 and RCA ANT3901 complement small satellite dishes, delivering local off-air VHF and UHF signals to satellite subscribers at no extra cost. These attach to DirecTV or Dish Network outdoor satellite antenna dishes.

The ANT3900 is designed for 18- or 20-inch dishes, with single or dual output LNB, and has a suggested $59.95 retail. ANT3901 is compatible with elliptical DBS satellite dishes with multiple LNBs and supports up to four satellite receivers. Suggested retail is $79.95.

Two HDTV-compatible indoor models, featuring contemporary two-tone silver designs, include the RCA ANT401, with 25dB amplification, auxiliary input, integrated 6-foot cable and 39-inch retractable dipoles. The UHF loop folds into the unit when not being used. Suggested retail is $34.95.

Sister to the ANT401 is the RCA ANT301, which offers the same design and features, but has 10dB amplification and adjustable gain control. Suggested retail is $24.95.

The lightweight and compact RCA ANT711 amplified indoor-outdoor antenna features a streamlined linear design. The antenna can be mounted on the roof, under the house eaves, on a balcony, outside a window or on a wall near the television. It includes 10dB of amplification, and an integrated recessed cable track enables the antenna to fit snugly to a surface. Suggested retail is $99.95.

"The HDTV transition is stimulating antenna sales with consumers who want to view local channels in HDTV for free," said David Geise, VP/Consumer Solutions at Thomson. "More than one thousand broadcast stations in 200-plus local markets are now transmitting programs in HDTV, and that number will continue to grow. To attract these viewers, we have developed antennas that seamlessly fit a room décor or take up minimal space," he said.