NextGen TV: You may need to rescan your television to watch Channel 57. Here's why

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- NEXTGEN TV has come to Philadelphia.

For most people, it doesn't mean a whole lot right now, but some television viewers will have to update the settings on their sets.

Who needs to do what and why? Check out our FAQs.

Who needs to make changes?

Viewers who watch local television with an antenna.

I am a viewer who watches television using an antenna. What do I have to do?

If you watch Philadelphia area television using an antenna, you will want to rescan to make sure you receive all of your favorite channels.

I am a viewer with a brand new NEXTGEN-enabled television using an antenna. What do I have to do?

If you watch Philadelphia area television using an antenna and you know you have recently purchased a television marked as NEXTGEN, you will need to "rescan" your channels. This will ensure that you are able to see all local television stations and you might find that some stations, including 6abc, have better reception and pictures.

I watch over cable, satellite or a streaming service. What do I have to do?

Nothing.

How do I rescan?

It varies a bit from television to television, and if you have your TV's instruction manual, it can give you specifics. Generally speaking, use your remote and press Menu or Settings. You should then see either Channels, Channel List, or Antenna. Then look for Scan or Autoscan. It should take a few minutes to complete.

What will happen if I'm supposed to rescan but don't?

In Philadelphia, you will not be able to see Philly 57-The CW and its sub-channels.

Why not? I want to know the technical details.

In order to deliver NEXTGEN television to the entire Philadelphia region, Philly 57's broadcast tower has now become the "lighthouse" for the stations participating in the NEXTGEN TV transition. That means Philly 57's channel had to temporarily move to another antenna and frequency. You need to rescan so your television can see them in their new temporary home.

Does this mean I need to get a new NEXTGEN television?

No, you don't. Your current television will continue to work throughout this transition. You do not need to make any changes, however, NEXTGEN TV viewers are likely to see improved reception over the air.

Then why are you doing this?

Eventually, NEXTGEN will allow local television stations to provide enhanced and interactive programming to viewers, but that isn't happening yet. There is no rush to go out to buy new equipment.

You can learn a lot more about NEXTGEN television by clicking here.

I've heard about something called ATSC 3.0. Is that the same thing?

Yes, same thing, different name.