|
The point of the troubleshooting it to eliminate one of the variables (splitters) with their attendant attenuation loss. Once the circuit is down to a single set, the antenna's location can be adjusted to see if you can find a better spot where the signals happen to cooperate. Putting an antenna in an attic in a location where it might be convenient for you, is rarely a successful proposition. You usually need to go on the equivalent of an Easter egg hunt to see what you can find.
Yes, there are external boxes. You can pick up an SD box for $50 from Walmart. However, if you want HD output, then a more expensive box like the KWorld SA295 series, will run $75-100 online. You'll have to look at your RCA for available inputs as the SA295 comes in separate models based on the output port. Other options would be to set up a home theater PC or use a Tivo or one of the Tuner/DVR combos available. A lot will depend on what capabilities you'd like and what your budget might be.
Do try the troubleshooting including experimenting with the location of the C4 if that is needed.
|