This article shows you how to choose and install an antenna for your TV.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparation
Step 1. Determine the type of antenna connector for your TV
Virtually every appliance has a socket on the back or side where the antenna cable must be plugged. There are two main versions:
- Coaxial RF: looks like a threaded cylinder with a hole in the center; it is the standard model for most modern televisions;
- IEC: looks like a smooth cylinder with another cylinder in the center and is typically found on older models with a cathode ray tube;
- Consult your appliance manual or search online by serial number to find out the type of antenna.
Step 2. Find the location of the nearest repeater
You can get this information by typing your position and the words "tv repeater" in the Google search bar; that way, you have an idea of what kind of antenna you need. For example, if the closest repeater is still relatively far away, indoor two-pronged models are certainly not ideal.
- You can also use this site to find the nearest broadcasters;
- Knowing the location of the repeater allows you to point the antenna in the correct direction if necessary.
Step 3. Buy the antenna
If you don't already have it or need a more powerful one, buy it online or at an electronics store. You have a few options to choose from:
- Flat satellite antenna: this is the newest model and requires very little fine adjustment after connecting it to your TV. Guarantees greater bandwidth and reception than traditional ones;
- "Indoor": it is an antenna with two telescopic tips ("rabbit ears") and is quite common. Generally, it should be mounted behind the appliance and is a good solution only if the house is near a repeater;
- Whip: it is another telescopic model similar to the "rabbit ear" model both in terms of operation and installation;
- For UHF outdoors: it is the large model, made up of several elements that is generally seen on the roofs of houses; it's perfect for long haul connections when you live in a remote location.
Step 4. Purchase an extension cable if needed
Especially if you are mounting an outdoor model, you need a coaxial cable long enough to connect the antenna to the TV; you can buy it online or in electronics stores.
If you don't have much space behind the appliance, a small extension cable for indoor antennas should be taken
Part 2 of 2: Connecting
Step 1. Turn off the TV and unplug the power supply
Press the on / off button on the device and remove the plug from the wall socket or unplug the power cord behind the TV; in this way, you prevent accidental damage to the antenna or to the appliance itself.
Step 2. Connect the antenna to the corresponding port on the TV
Find the coupling that is typically placed on the back, slide the connector in and tighten it (if applicable).
If you have decided to use an extension cable, connect one end to the TV port and the other to the antenna
Step 3. Insert the plug back into the socket and turn on the device
Depending on the selected channel, you may receive broadcasts from a local station.
Step 4. Search for channels
This procedure varies depending on the type of TV, so you should refer to the instruction manual or an online tutorial. Generally speaking, you should select "TV" as the source and then scroll through the various available stations.
If you know the exact frequency of the local channels, you can search for them one by one by setting the source to "TV"
Step 5. Adjust the antenna as needed
If you have a directional model, such as a "rabbit ear" or roof mounted model, you need to point it in the direction of the nearest repeater. You should also move objects around the house that are in the path of the waves.
- This is a trial and error process, so don't worry if you don't succeed the first time!
- A flat satellite antenna does not need many adjustments, as it is more powerful than traditional and multidirectional ones.
Advice
- If you have to constantly adjust the position of the antenna on the roof, consider buying a rotor that allows you to do this from the comfort of your home.
- The RF port on the TV is the same as the one used for cable TV.
- If you are laying a cable outside the house or inside the walls, make sure it is shielded; This way, you ensure the best picture quality and the cable itself is less susceptible to breakage and damage from the elements.
