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KPAX viewers need to rescan TVs after transmitter upgrade improves signal quality

KPAX Transmitter
KPAX VHF to UHF upgrade
MTN Engineer Mark Huller explains the change from VHF to UHF
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UPDATE Sunday, Nov. 2nd, 2025:

Saturday afternoon, our engineering team successfully completed the installation of a new antenna and transmitter to improve the quality of our broadcast signal.

Since the transition, we are aware that some viewers using Dish TV and other providers have experienced service disruptions. As of Sunday afternoon, our engineers have restored service.

Viewers watching with an over-the-air antenna should rescan their channels to continue receiving KPAX. After rescanning, KPAX will be on channel 25.1.

Original Report: Saturday, Nov. 1st, 2025:

KPAX viewers who watch over-the-air television need to rescan their TVs after the station completed a major transmitter upgrade on TV Mountain north of Missoula on Saturday, Nov. 1st, 2025.

KPAX shifted from a very high frequency channel to an ultra-high frequency channel as part of a three-year project designed to improve indoor reception for viewers.

Better TV reception is here! KPAX's Jill Valley & Mark Martin explain the upgrades and how to rescan your TV.

KPAX VHF to UHF upgrade

How to Rescan Your TV

For viewers who receive KPAX through an antenna, here are step-by-step instructions to rescan your television. The exact steps may vary by manufacturer, but the basic process remains similar across most TVs.

Step 1: Using your TV's original remote, find and press the "menu" or "setup" button.

Step 2: Navigate to Channel Settings by looking for options labeled "channels," "antenna," "tuner" or similar terms within the menu.

Step 3: Start the scan by selecting "scan," "auto-tune," "channel search," "auto program" or similar options.

Step 4: Allow the TV to complete its search. The television will automatically search for available channels and update the list, which typically takes several minutes.

Step 5: Some TVs will ask you to accept the changes. If KPAX appears on your channel list, you can proceed. If not, try rescanning again.

After rescanning, KPAX will be on channel 25.1.

KPAX Transmitter

Additional Tips

Before rescanning, ensure your antenna connection is securely plugged in and receiving good signals from other stations. The "Free TV Project" TV antenna pointer app can help you properly aim your antenna.

When rescanning, make sure you are searching for over-the-air channels received through an antenna, not cable channels.

If problems persist, search online for your TV's manual using the make and model number, or consult the FCC's TV Rescan Toolkit for specific instructions.

MTN engineer Mark Huller explains what viewers can expect with the UHF upgrade:

MTN Engineer Mark Huller explains the change from VHF to UHF