Quote:
|
beyond the 70 miles range that the 8E specs show.
|
Mileages are estimates only. They are given to allow novice customers some insight into the relative performance between models. Such numbers are not promises nor guarantees. Depending on local conditions, the DB8e might be able to readily receive signals from over 100 miles away or, in severe cases, might be unable to pick up signals a mere couple of miles away. Terrain, trees, and transmitter characteristics (operating power, operating channel, directional characteristics, transmitting antenna height, etc) are all important elements that will affect the signals before they ever get to the vicinity of the antenna.
Think of the old adage about what three things make real estate valuable: Location, location, and location. Antenna selection, installation, and system performance are going to be affected by that triple factor.
It is far more accurate to use the TVFool simulator to estimate incoming signal strength, then to select an antenna with the needed characteristics so that the job can get done as well as possible. Experienced users of this site have learned that skill and can get antenna recommendations into the ballpark (or better).