Quote:
Originally Posted by Jonah
... if possible I'd rather not go to a large antenna.
My question regarding the splitter has to do within the coaxial run. Should it go equal distance between the two televisions, or does that make any difference?
Can I put a preamplifier?
Thanks
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You should not need to worry about making the cable lengths equal on the outputs of the splitter. The signal levels you're blessed with 'should' make it possible for you to split the signal at least 4-ways and still have power to drive over 100' of RG-6 type coax. If you connect 10' to one port and 100' to another, you should be fine. But be sure that all connectors are secure, one bad connection can affect the entire system and therefor, all receivers. Are all of your cables and splitter new, (factory assembled connectors)? I ask because your initial test indicates you have plenty of signal to work with. Once you added a splitter and more cable, you began seeing signs of trouble... which suggests you may have a problem with a cable, connector or the splitter.
Are the TVs having trouble displaying a reliable picture? Or, are you only seeing fluctuations of a signal meter indication? In over the air reception, I measure success primarily by how reliable the picture is... I'm not nearly as interested in the signal meter reading. (Though that may be more interesting than the programs available sometimes.
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If you are seeing signal strength or quality change in the evening, I have to wonder about sources of interference. Electronic equipment in the home can often be a significant source... even the electronic timer/controller in your dishwasher or clothes dryer can be trouble sources. Computers and printers can be major sources of interference. Unplugging or turning of a circuit breaker may be needed to isolate interference sources.
I agree with Electron, a preamplifier could actually make you situation worse. You have a lot of strong signals which will overload preamplifiers designed for weak signal areas.