Remove Splitters – Install Distribution Amplifiers Normally I install models with around 13dB gain but adjustable models can be purchased which allow you with a small screwdriver to increase or decrease the amplified signal. Masthead amplifiers come with varying amounts of signal gain and I can’t advise what would be the best for you. That being said you will get some benefit with masthead amplifier where signals coming from the aerial are weak or borderline. There are also distribution amplifiers on the market that will also capable of powering masthead amplifier.Īs with all amplification, the amplifier should only be used to overcome cable losses and signal losses associated with the splitting of TV signals to multiple TV’s. So you need to be sure that all your splitters and wall plates are DC passing and not isolated as this will prevent the voltage from reaching the masthead amplifier. The masthead amplifier should also be installed before any distribution equipment like TV aerial splitters and distribution amplifiers. When I say this should be installed as close to the aerial as possible a cable length of at least 1m should be left between the TV aerial and the amplifier. Fortunately, this isn’t required as a masthead amplifier is powered by a power supply unit which can be installed behind your TV which sends 12V DC up the aerial cable. Obviously, this means that the best place to install a masthead amplifier is usually outside on the aerial mast where there is no electrical supply. When installing amplifiers for TV aerials it is best to install these as close to the aerial itself as this will carry as much of the signal through the system and not allow it to become weak at any point. The next thing to try would be to install a masthead amplifier. If you have tried installing your aerial outside, higher up and with a higher gain TV aerial, or if all of these are not possible. If you’re struggling getting this right it would probably be best to call out a professional TV aerial company to align your TV aerial for you come and do this for you. This is especially true with more directional TV aerials, like high gain TV aerials where you have to have to be more accurate with the TV aerial alignment. OK, I understand that this isn’t going to be easy to do without an alignment tool or a TV spectrum analyser but aligning your TV aerial professionally could make a huge difference in the amount of signal being received from your TV aerial. I find that installing a bracket size of ¼ of the overall mast height helps and also upgrading the the mast for one with a least a 1.5”diameter, 2” is ideal for high gain and large TV aerials. This means that higher gain aerials are always larger than traditional Yagi type aerials so you should also check that the fixings that are going to support the aerial and extra weight are strong enough. High gain aerials work by added more elements to the aerial boom which improves the aerial performance which helps improves the acceptance angle and the signal being received. It may be a good idea to install a higher gain aerial. These are usually unnecessary if you have a TV aerial installed outside on a chimney or gable end wall but If you live in a weak signal area or are going to be running multiple TV’s off one aerial. Install A Higher Gain TV AerialĪnother way to get more TV signal is to install a higher gain TV aerial. You will almost certainly get a better TV reception from a loft aerial, only if your loft is not foil lined that is. If installing your aerial on your roof or outside on a wall is not possible and you have an indoor aerial. Failing to do this your aerial is likely to blow down in the wind. A good guide is to ensure that the fixing bracket size is at least 1/6th of the overall mast height. Just remember that when you install an aerial onto a larger mast that the fixings need to be able to support it. If you live in a weak signal area you may get some benefit from installing your aerial onto a 10’ or 12’ mast instead of a 6’ mast, especially if this helps you clear nearby obstructions. To go along with installing your TV aerial outside,installing your aerial higher up will nearly always help improve your TV signal strength.
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