Time Warner Inc. proposed to give free antennas to help customers who wanted to watch CBS via broadcast signals last Friday. This is because the cable shutdown had already reached its third week, according to the cable operator.

The cable blackout had transpired after Time Warner Cable and CBS Broadcasting failed to renew a programming deal that expired last June. The shutdown had affected more than 3 million Time Warner Cable clients in major cities. These cities include Los Angeles, Dallas and New York.

Time Warner Cable customers were notified through email and posted statements on the cable operator's website that they could ask for indoor antennas at their local cable store. These antennas are offered without payment. Time Warner also offered a USD20 voucher for those who want to purchase basic antennas from Best Buy Co Inc.

The company cable said, "All blacked-out broadcast stations remain available over the air, and most households can receive the signals if they have the right equipment."

Amazon gift cards were also offered to customers to be able to watch CBS programs. By using the gift cards, customers had been enabled to watch Amazon's live streaming service through the Internet.

CBS refused to comment on the free antenna offers.