How to Watch PBS NC for Free with an Antenna

Alyssa Demanche

• Published on August 18, 2025

A hand holding a remote that's being pointed to a TV with the Blue Ridge Mountains on it.

How to Watch PBS NC with an Antenna: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Would you like to enjoy PBS North Carolina for free and in high definition? With a simple antenna, you can tune in to our trusted programs—no cable or subscription required.

Whether you love North Carolina Weekend, Sci NC, PBS News Hour or Masterpiece, you can watch it all over the air with just a few easy steps.

What You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll need:

A television with a digital tuner
(Most TVs made after 2007 include this by default.)
An HD antenna
(These are small, affordable and available online or at most electronics stores.)

How to Set It Up

1. Pick the right antenna.
If you live near a city or town, a basic indoor antenna should do the trick. If you’re in a more rural area, consider a stronger indoor antenna or an outdoor model for the best results.

2. Connect the antenna to your TV.
Locate the “ANT IN” or “RF” port on the back of your TV and plug the antenna’s cable into it.

3. Place the antenna in a good spot.
Higher is better! Try placing it near a window and away from thick walls or metal surfaces.

4. Scan for channels.
Using your TV remote:

Go to the “Menu” or “Settings.”
Choose “Channel Setup” or “Auto Program.”
Select “Air” or “Antenna” (not “Cable”).
Start the channel scan—this may take a few minutes.

5. Find PBS NC on your dial.
After scanning, your TV will list all available channels.

PBS NC is available in most areas across the state. Depending on where you live, it may appear as:

Channel 4.1 (Chapel Hill/Raleigh/Durham)
Channel 17.1 (Greensboro)
Channel 33.1 (Charlotte)
Or another local channel number.

Find your local PBS NC channel as well as Rootle, the Explorer Channel and the North Carolina Channel in our Channel Guide.

Tips for Better Reception

Reposition the antenna to improve signal strength.
Re-scan for channels after adjusting the antenna.
Check reception during different times of day or weather conditions.

Need Help? We’re Here for You

Setting up an antenna can feel unfamiliar, but it’s simpler than it sounds—and we’re happy to help you along the way.

📞 Reach Viewer Services at 888-292-7070, Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, or viewer@pbsnc.org anytime.

Why Watch PBS NC with an Antenna?

It’s free. No monthly bills or subscriptions.
It’s reliable. Stay connected to your local news, emergency updates and educational programming.
It’s crystal clear. Over-the-air HD often looks better than cable!

PBS North Carolina proudly serves all 100 counties with programs that inform, educate and inspire. Watching with an antenna is a smart, easy way to keep enjoying the shows you love.