How does geocoding work?
Geocoding an address allows us to determine availability of off-air local channel signals or the customer’s eligibility for DNS. First an address is plotted on a virtual map. Then the signal area of each off-air broadcaster serving that area is overlaid on that map. The effective signal area of a station is based on the location, number, and power level of each of that station’s transmitters. Next, the distance between the location and the nearest transmitter is calculated. The farther from a transmitter, the weaker its incoming signal will be. Finally, the effects of terrain and other obstacles at the location, as well as between that location and the transmitters, are factored into the calculations. All signal strength predictions are made based on an external antenna mounted 30 feet above ground level. This assumed antenna height is the standard established by the television broadcasting industry for predicting signal strength at a given location.
