Amplifier question

[LoTech]

I know this has probably been asked before, but is there any difference between an old analog distribution amplifier and a new one branded for HDTV? I have an old Radio Shack 15-1168 coaxial amp that I would like to use with OTA to boost the signal inside my house before I connect into the house cabling. Is there any down side to using an old amplifier like this?

[ADTech]

No, there isn't any particular difference. The amp doesn't know or care if the signal is analog or digital as long as you operate it within it's design limits.

Every Radio Shack amp I'd bought in years back (before I came here), ended up in the trash just as soon as I got test gear to show how bad they actually were.

Give it a shot, it may well work out in your particular circumstance. The worst that might happen is it doesn't work well and you have to remove it.

There are very good distribution amps that are inexpensive (<$50) should you find a new one is needed. Features to look for include number of outputs, gain, noise figure, and overload tolerance.

[LoTech]

Originally Posted by ADTech

No, there isn't any particular difference. The amp doesn't know or care if the signal is analog or digital as long as you operate it within it's design limits.

Every Radio Shack amp I'd bought in years back (before I came here), ended up in the trash just as soon as I got test gear to show how bad they actually were.

Give it a shot, it may well work out in your particular circumstance. The worst that might happen is it doesn't work well and you have to remove it.

There are very good distribution amps that are inexpensive (<$50) should you find a new one is needed. Features to look for include number of outputs, gain, noise figure, and overload tolerance.

Thanks. I don't know any of the specs on this particular amp, but I'll give it a try. If it's not up to snuff, I'll buy a new one.

[rabbit73]

http://support.radioshack.com/produc...sories&Reuse=N

http://support.radioshack.com/suppor...oc40/40777.htm