A cable TV converter is an electronic device hooked up to a television for greater channel tuning, even if the television is not cable-ready. It is generally inexpensive, making it the better and more practical alternative to subscribing to a cable company.
While it is useful and cost-effective, the cable TV converter is now considered illegal by federal laws because it allows non-subscribers to receive and enjoy cable television. Many cable converters are now banned, as many manufacturers are being sued for illegal practice.
An analog cable TV converter is made for analog television units. It receives TV signals with a frequency range of 46 to 870 MHz. Some models can also be used with stand-alone decoders or descramblers.
A digital cable TV converter is made for digital television units. It converts digital programming channels for viewing on digital TVs such as digital music video channels, pay-per-view channels, digital networks, and premium cable networks.