So do we have anyone in the group that is good with the finer points in antenna set-up

[G+_Jason Perry]

So do we have anyone in the group that is good with the finer points in antenna set-up.

 

I want to set an antenna up for an OTA set-up but I am interested in ways to better my chances of getting good signal quality. I know how to put the basic set-up together but I am interested in things like filters and amplifiers to condition the signal before it comes off my roof top.

 

Cheers

[G+_Eddie Foy]

Filters? As to reject unwanted freqs?  This shouldn't be an issue.  The antenna should be resonant at the OTA freqs, so other freqs will be naturally over run.

 

If running balanced feed line 300 - 450 ohms (ladder line, window line, etc.  Like 2 conductors separated by a web), it will need a balun at/near the TV to convert it to the 75ohms your TV needs.

This line should be run in free air as far away from metal as possible. (if you have alum siding, definitely not against the house.  6 inches out should be enough.

 

Coax cable will be unbalanced line and the balun will probably be at the antenna itself.  And more forgiving as to running it.

 

Amplifiers are a touchy item.  They also amplify the extra noise.  I'd steer clear of them, unless you need them.

 

Get the antenna at least a 1/2 wavelength above the mounting point/roof if possible.

 

Also the safety aspect: grounding for lightning strikes.  Please remember to ground it correctly!

[G+_Jason Perry]

Eddie Foy , The antenna I am looking at is the RCA ANT751 only because I have seen good reviews. I want to either mount it in my attic or on a small mast on my roof. From there I have some RG6 coax lying around I was going to run it to a HDHomeRun in my attic and wire that into my network.

 

The only amplification I would entertain is at the antenna for the reason of also amplifying the noise. I do think I want to give it a try, maybe not settle on in depending on the results, because I want to test how far away I can pick up digital signals.

 

There is also no metal for me to worry about outside of the mast but I am looking at spacing the cable off the mast. I was only thinking of going 3 inches away for aesthetics but I am sure I can figure out a way to go 6

 

Thanks for the grounding reminder. With my original attic mount plans grounding was taken into account but I have overlooked that aspect on the roof mount. I will need to add that in

[G+_Eddie Foy]

If you are using RG6 coax, you shouldn't need the stand offs.