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The 5 Key Steps for Successful TV Antenna Installation
TV Antenna
The antenna is the most important part of the entire antenna system. A high-quality antenna ensures good conditions for receiving an uninterrupted signal. Factors such as distance from the transmitter and the terrain in front of it affect antenna selection. Dense forests or high terrain obstacles, for example, can significantly attenuate the signal.
TV Antenna Installation Location
Another important aspect of signal reception is finding the optimal location for the installation site. The signal can be received best with a direct line of sight, even over long distances (100km). One of the most effective ways to receive a good signal is to install the antenna as high as possible at the installation site. When utilizing height, it is important to remember the strength requirements to maintain safety, for which professional antenna installation accessories are suitable.
If possible, the antenna should be placed as far away from trees as possible. The installation site can be, for example, at the gable of the house. Sometimes, however, the best signal can be found under trees. The attenuation of trees is affected by their density and moisture. A rain-soaked spruce tree can be a significant obstacle to the signal, and antenna problems often occur in early summer when leaves grow.
A good rule of thumb is "the higher, the better".
TV Antenna Cable
The signal travels through the antenna cable from the antenna to the television. The most important criterion for the cable is its center conductor. The thickness of the center conductor affects the attenuation that occurs in the cable. A good guideline here is "the thicker the cable, the better".
Another significant factor is the cable insulation. The cable must not "leak" signal and thus cause interference to other devices. To ensure this, it is always recommended to use high-quality cables suitable for installation. When installing the cable underground, it is important to always use a black surface material that prevents moisture. White cable does not last long in the ground and will soon cause TV image flickering.
Splitting, Antenna Sockets, and Connection Cables
Often in a home antenna network, there are multiple receivers, and therefore viewing points can be found in different rooms. In this case, the signal is distributed to different receiver locations using a splitter or divider. Splitting always causes attenuation and weakens the signal. Splitters and dividers are available in various types with different connectors and mechanics.
The purpose of an antenna socket is to distribute the incoming signal to the TV and radio. Often the reason for its installation is a matter of appearance, as there is no other real benefit to the antenna socket.
The connection cable from the antenna socket to the TV is often the weakest link in the entire system, and in many fault locations, the problem can be found in the most affordable part of the antenna system, the TV connection cable.
New factory-made cables also have many breaks and significant signal attenuation. It is always advisable to use a high-quality self-made or antenna shop-made high-quality cable with high-quality connectors.
Nordic Antenna's TV Connection Cable PRO antenna cable is made from ECA standard Fagor CCF 020 antenna cable with a 7mm diameter and Triax's shielded (Koswi) IEC connectors.
- Product category of splitters
- Product category of antenna outlets
- Product category of cables and connectors
Antenna Amplifiers
The purpose of amplifiers is to strengthen the signal received from the antenna.
Mast amplifiers and network devices are used in poor reception conditions. The amplifier should be placed as close to the antenna as possible and the network device indoors. Voltage is supplied via the antenna cable. It is important to note that there should be no components between the devices that do not allow electricity to pass through, such as splitters or antenna sockets. Low noise figure, sufficient gain, and good protective mechanical structure are the most important features of an amplifier.
The task of a line amplifier is to compensate for antenna network losses when the signal is otherwise of good quality, but there are several antenna sockets and long cable runs in use.
When using an amplifier, it is important to note that possible external disturbances can cause pixelation in the image. In this case, it is advisable to turn to a professional installation company. LTE signals cause many problems in TV reception. However, removing these problems is the responsibility of the operators and is free for consumers. The problems typically occur when using amplifiers and when the installation site is close to transmitters. However, various filters are available to eliminate these issues.
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Antenna Guide is a collection of Nordic Antenna articles related to choosing the right antenna, antenna installation, and antenna alignment. You can also find general information about TV and 4G/5G issues in our guides.
Why does the TV image stutter, pixelate, or not show at all? Learn more about common antenna problems and instructions for solving them: TV channels not showing, what to do?
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