Antenna Question

[keithsan]

Hi,

I run an antenna off my house but I'm looking for one for my brother. I'm worried about reception as he's in a valley and seems to be pushing the limits on distance (maybe). Anyways, I was worried that the one I have wouldn't be strong enough. I read the FAQ but was still concerned.

Any ideas. Here's his info:
http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...d243090fc078bf

Thanks in Advance

keithsan

[Jake V]

That TV Fool Report is challenging.

However, it is only resolved to the block level, so it may or may not be accurate.

Also, it does not show any height above ground.

Create and post several TV Fool Report by following these directions: http://forum.tvfool.com/showthread.php?t=14508

Create one at the logical height of the antenna (roof level + 5'). Then create another one at 50 foot. After you click on "Make Radar Plot" post the links to both. You probably won't put an antenna at 50' but that will help those giving advice whether an increased height would significantly help.

[keithsan]

Thanks Jake. This area was always tough years ago with any reception. Hoping things are better now.

my best guess is the house is 25 feet.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...d2432bb6d28149
Here is the reading from 50 feet.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...d2436033b3611f

Thanks again.

Keith

[timgr]

Hi Keith -

These maps look like they are only resolved to the block level - if I'm reading the annotation right. You can start the MAPS function on the TVFool front page, and put the cursor precisely on your location. Might make a difference ...

If it were for me, I would first try to get stations from Boston WGBH/X, WBZ, WCVB, WHDH, WFXT, WLVI, WSBK and WMFP. These are all UHF and you'd have a good chance of reliably receiving them all with a sensitive UHF antenna like the Antennas Direct DB8e. I'd go as high as I could, and locate the antenna where is it not obstructed by adjacent buildings or trees in the line of sight to the horizon in the direction of the stations (82 magnetic). This should cover all the majors and a few independents, and from there you could think about trying for the other markets (Hartford, Providence, Springfield) by aiming one panel at Boston and the second at the other market, or adding a second VHF antenna aimed elsewhere. For example, you could try for WNAC and WPRI with an Antennacraft Y5713 or Y10713 and add those to the Boston stations.

[keithsan]

Thanks timgr

I guess they are block level, not sure why, was trying all the how to links provided with maps and the couple suggestions, no dynamic maps or anything showing when I use those links.

Thank your for the Antenna suggestions. Please keep suggestions coming will post results when I hook one up.

Keith

[Ben Myers]

When using TV Fool, you can always enter your address. The best method is to click on "Online TV Maps" on the left, enter your address or zip code, click "Map this", then left-click and drag the teardrop icon to your location. Zoom in using the plus sign on the left side of the map. To move the map, left click on the map, hold the left click and drag the map in the proper direction. Once you reach maximum zoom, click on "Satellite" in the upper right corner and continue the process. When the teardrop in positioned correctly, click "Make Radar Plot".

[keithsan]

Thanks Ben,

I followed your directions from my point of view it still looks the same but here's the report at 25 feet:

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...d2437a99c70258

And here it is at 50 feet:
http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...d243427af78c72

Did I do that better?

Sorry such a pain, this house wasn't as easy as mine...

Thanks,

Keith