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View Full Version : help with DYI Coat Hanger Antenna in Barrhaven, Ontario


jean004
14-Apr-2011, 7:09 AM
Help with self-made antennas in Barrhaven Ontario

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I have two antennas that I built myself (youtube's coat hanger antenna), and combined. The two antennas as in two unfinished rooms in the basement, on I beleive is facing south vertically, and the other is facing north horizontally. I'm not sure if it makes a different which way I position these. I decided to build a second antenna to see if it would make a diffence, and what I have noticed is that I have more ''clear'' channels, but not more. So quality is better, but quantity of channels has not changed.

This is the analysis for my location and being underground or closest to.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d8d170c091fb363

Currently I get the following:

DTV (all are perfect)
4.1 CBC
9.1 Radio Canada
17.1 City TV
27.1 Omni 1
66.1 Omni 2

Regular (Analog) signal
9 Radio Canada - very good
11 CHCH - good
13 CTV - very good
14 Omni 2 - good
24 TVO - good
40 TVA - can see, but snowy
43 A Channel - can see, but snowy
60 Omni 1 - can see, but snowy
65 City TV can see, but snowy

Depending on how I move my antennas (slight move to the right or left), I can pick up a very snowy 4 CBC and 6 Global.

Ideally, I thik I should be able to get all these channels in a good to very good signal.

What am I doing wrong, or what can I do to get these two channels (4 and 6) and others, and improve the quality of what I already have.

Would I benefit from purchasing another antenna? Or would I benefit greatly from installing these two DYI built antennas in my attic?

Note I am not very technical so instructions in clear english are appreciated.

Dave Loudin
14-Apr-2011, 11:15 AM
Several points:

1) If the bowtie size was 7 inches, then you have a too-small design. Consult this site (http://m4antenna.eastmasonvilleweather.com/index.html) for more appropriate designs.

2) Bowtie antennas are not very sensitive to channels 2 - 6. Remember that digital 4.1 is actually broadcast on channel 25.

3) TV signals travel generally by line-of-sight. You will lose a tremendous amount of signal by trying to pick up signals in the basement. Locating outside is best, but the attic should work.

4) There are other DIY antennas that will work better than your bowties. However,

5) Consult with the OTA forum at digitalhome.ca for better targeted advice.