Quote:
|
Could it actually degrade reception?
|
Yes, there's a limit to how strong the signal can be as it enters the amplifier. If too strong, one or more signal will be distorted which interferes with the reliable reception of that signal and in some cases, other signals can be affected also.
To test reception without the amplifier, both the power unit and the mast-head unit must be out of the circuit.
If the signal levels are as strong as shown on your report, the CM-7777 would not be the correct amplifier to use. If you truly needed any amplifier at all, it should be capable of handling strong input signal levels.
The trees you've mentioned are a concern. A chainsaw is an effective solution if it's not going to create legal consequences. They attenuate signal levels to some degree, but that's not the primary issue in most cases. Your report indicates that there's plenty of signal strength, enough to overcome quite a bit of simple attenuation. The more significant issue for most folks with trees in the way is that signal fluctuations caused by moving limbs and foliage causes the tuner to loose lock momentarily as it adjusts itself the the constant changes in signal level and phase caused by the movement of the vegetation. If you have no way to avoid the trees, try a larger antenna. That said, I haven't heard you describe moving foliage symptoms specifically, unless you've inferred or implied it with the phrase, "...fairly decent reception...".
(I'm surrounded by Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar in excess of 100', with signal levels quite similar to those shown on your report. When the wind blows, some channels are prone to intermittent visual and audible impairments. I'm using the largest available antennas, which has helped to improve the situation though not eliminate the problem entirely. I'm still experimenting with mounting options in excess of 80 feet AGL.)