Updated report

[signmastr]

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3de2cb456b6fdb11

I've updated my antenna mast, 18ft with a DB8 on top, Y5-7-13 below (3ft) and a RCA TVPRAMP 1R in between. Lately I've been intermittently loosing stations, attributed to wind/tree leaves/etc, yesterday I lost both VHF stations, channels 8 and 10, my strongest signals. I'm suspect the preamp may be starting to fail. I have a pct-ma2-m amp and thought I'd try removing the TVPRAMP1R and installing a UVSJ with the PCT at the base of the mast. I have to drop the mast to do this. Is there a way to remove the power from the TVPRAMP1R to test the drop amp? Also could turning off the TVPRAMP1R FM filter help at all? Any ideas or suggestions?

[rabbit73]

The RCA TVPRAMP1R has a history of problems with the combined/separate switch. It often doesn't make good contact with the VHF antenna when in the separate position.

The fix is to combine the antennas with a UVSJ and connect its output to the input of the preamp with the switch set to combined.

[signmastr]

Has anyone successfully repaired the RCA TVPRAMP 1R by removing or by-passing the faulty switches?

Could the RCA TVPRAMP be mounted at the mast base (18ft) for easier access?

Would using a UVSJ and the PCT-MA2 at the mast base (18ft) instead of the RCA TVPRAMP produce comparable results?

[rabbit73]

Has anyone successfully repaired the RCA TVPRAMP 1R by removing or by-passing the faulty switches?The only repair that I know of is the one by Pete Higgins that I suggested above.

What you have in mind could be done. I would first try a contact cleaner spray and leave the switch in the combined position. If that didn't work, I would solder in a jumper to make that permanent.

Could the RCA TVPRAMP be mounted at the mast base (18ft) for easier access?Yes, it would cost you 1 or 2 dB loss of antenna gain, because of the coax loss.
Would using a UVSJ and the PCT-MA2 at the mast base (18ft) instead of the RCA TVPRAMP produce comparable results?Probably, but I don't know about your distribution system after the preamp.

If you want to test the PCT amp at the base, you will need to have AC power for the transformer there and feed the DC into the upper left port. If you want to use the PCT amp like a preamp with the power from inside, you will use the lower left port for the power in AND the signal out. This will require a PCT-MPI-1G power inserter inside with the transformer. I can give you a diagram if you want it.

[rabbit73]

Also could turning off the TVPRAMP1R FM filter help at all?I don't think you have a serious problem with FM signals causing interference to TV reception. I did an FM FOOL report based on my estimate of your location which puts you near S Vine and E Elder:
http://www.fmfool.com/modeling/tmp/a47d75d49f/Radar-FM.png

[signmastr]

So, turning off the TVPRAMP1R FM filter won't hurt but could help?

I did read somewhere the Pete was going to attempt a by-pass repair on his TVPRAMP1R. I don't know if he was successful though.

I have 4 TV's in 4 rooms on one 4 way splitter, TVPRAMP1R only, no amp.

When testing the PCT-MA2 would the TVPRAMP1R need to be replaced by the UVSJ or just powered down? I do have the power inserter.

A diagram might be helpful. Thanks for your input...

[rabbit73]

The RCA preamp, its power injector, and its power cord must not be in the circuit in any way when testing the PCT amp.

So, turning off the TVPRAMP1R FM filter won't hurt but could help?I doubt that it will make much difference; try it and let us know..

[rabbit73]

Try this first:

1. Connect the UHF and VHF antennas to the UVSJ
2. Connect the output of the UVSJ to the input of the RCA preamp with its switch set to combined

What UVSJ are you using?

[rabbit73]

To test the PCT amp if power is available at base for transformer:

DB8 > 18ft coax
\
UVSJ > PCT AMP > grounding > coax > splitter
/ | block
Y5-7-13 > 18ft coax |
DC PWR into upper left port
if AC is available at base
Use lower left port for coax to grounding block
If AC power is not available at base:
DB8 > 18ft coax
\ PCT
UVSJ > PCT AMP > grounding > coax > power > splitter
/ block inserter
Y5-7-13 > 18ft coax
Use lower left port for coax to grounding block

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[signmastr]

I'll try that this weekend, wind allowing.
I have a Holland UVSJ and the PCT-MPI-1G power inserter pictured.
Thanks again...