To hook up an antenna to an LG Smart TV, connect the coaxial cable from your antenna to the ANTENNA / CABLE In port on the back of the TV, then run a channel scan to find free local broadcasts. This direct connection gives you access to the channels available on an LG smart TV without any monthly fee, and it's the fastest way to watch live TV on LG smart TV with just an over-the-air signal.
Gather your antenna and cable
Before starting, make sure you have the essential items: an antenna (indoor or outdoor), a coaxial cable, and, if your antenna model requires it, a power supply and mounting hardware. For outdoor antennas that need signal boosting, the power supply connects between the antenna and an electrical outlet, while mounting brackets secure the antenna to a roof or wall. Check the antenna's manual to confirm which accessories apply to your specific model.
Find and connect to the antenna input
Locate the round, threaded port labeled ANTENNA / CABLE In on the back or side of your LG Smart TV. This is the only port that accepts the coaxial cable from your antenna. Take one end of the coaxial cable and screw it firmly onto the antenna's RF output, then attach the other end to the TV's antenna input, tightening it by hand until snug.
If your LG TV has two antenna inputs, connect the cable to the port labeled UHD TV Antenna to receive UHD broadcasts. This dedicated input is required for Ultra High Definition over-the-air signals, as standard analog or HD antennas cannot properly receive UHD broadcasts. Using the correct port ensures you don't miss out on higher-resolution local channels, and you can confirm the full setup steps when you hook up antenna to LG smart TV.
Position the antenna for the best signal
Place your antenna near a window or in a location with a clear line of sight to broadcast towers, as walls and large objects can block signals. For indoor antennas, experiment with different heights and orientations, sometimes moving it just a foot or two makes a significant difference. Outdoor antennas should be mounted as high as possible, ideally on a roof or tall pole, and pointed toward the nearest transmission towers.
For UHD broadcasts, position a UHD antenna near a window to minimize signal interference. Use the TV's signal strength indicator (found in the channel tuning menu) while adjusting the antenna, and move it slowly in small increments until the indicator shows the strongest possible reading. Keep in mind that distance from towers, geographical obstacles, and nearby electronics can all affect reception, so patience is key.
Scan for channels on your LG Smart TV
After connecting and positioning the antenna, turn on your TV and press the Settings button (the cog wheel icon) on your remote to begin the channel scan. The exact menu path depends on your webOS version, so follow the steps below for your model.
For webOS 6.0 and newer (2021 models and later)
Go to Settings > All Settings > General > Channels > Channel Tuning > Auto Tuning. Select Antenna as the input source, then choose Digital Only Search if available. Press Start to begin the scan, and wait for the TV to find all available channels, this may take a few minutes.
For webOS 4.0 to 5.0 (post-2014 models)
Press Home on your remote, then navigate to Settings > Advanced setting > Channel. Select Auto Tuning, choose Antenna as the source, and enable Digital Only Search if the option appears. Start the scan and wait for it to complete.
For older webOS or non-webOS models (pre-2013)
Press Menu on your remote, then go to Setting > Channel. Select Auto Tuning, pick Antenna as the input, and start the scan. Once finished, select Done or End to save the channels.
If you use a set-top box (like a cable or satellite receiver), you do not need to run Auto Tuning, simply change your TV's input to the HDMI port connected to the set-top box, and the channels will come through that device.
Organize and save your channels
Once the scan finishes, your LG TV will display a list of detected channels. To make navigation easier, open the channel list or channel management section from the settings menu. From there, you can rename channels, delete unwanted ones, or move them to preferred positions in the lineup. If your TV supports it, create custom groups (like "News," "Sports," or "Movies") to quickly access your favorite genres. After arranging the channels to your liking, exit the menu, your changes are saved automatically.
Fine-tune antenna placement
Even after a successful scan, small adjustments can improve signal quality. Access the signal strength indicator on your TV (usually in the channel tuning menu) and watch it while you move the antenna slightly. Rotate the antenna a few degrees, raise it higher, or shift it to a different spot on the wall, checking the indicator after each change. If you're using an outdoor antenna, consider adding a signal amplifier or booster to strengthen weak signals. Keep experimenting until you find the position with the strongest, most stable reading, this ensures clear, uninterrupted viewing.
Troubleshooting weak or no signal
If you're experiencing poor reception or no signal at all, work through these steps systematically. First, check all connections between the antenna, coaxial cable, and TV, loose cables are a common cause of signal loss. Next, reposition the antenna to a different location or angle, using the signal strength indicator to guide you. Inspect the antenna for physical damage, such as broken elements or corroded connectors, and replace it if necessary. Remove any obstructions near the antenna, including tall buildings, trees, or metal objects, that could block the signal. Also, check for interference from other electronic devices and move them away from the antenna.
If the problem persists, verify that your LG TV has the latest firmware installed by going to Settings > All Settings > General > About This TV > Check for Updates. Install any available updates and re-run the channel scan. If you've tried all these steps and still have issues, consult a professional antenna installer or contact LG support for further assistance. With patience and careful adjustments, you can resolve most connectivity problems and enjoy reliable over-the-air channels.
