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Old 3-Nov-2015, 6:58 PM   #3
rabbit73
Retired A/V Tech
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: S.E. VA
Posts: 2,753
Welcome Susan:

We don't pay much attention to antenna mileage figures; they are a creation of marketing departments. What counts is the signal strength and the terrain between the transmitter and your location as listed on your tvfool report. The antenna mileage figure doesn't matter if, for example, there is a big hill 5 miles away that blocks the signal.
Quote:
I have large oaks behind the home, beyond that fairly straight shot to the towers.
What worries me about your location are the trees that block the signals. Your tvfool report doesn't take into consideration trees or other buildings in the signal path.
Quote:
I tried 50 mile indoor antenna, and got only the very local spanish channel.
Tell us about the antenna. What model is it? Is it amplified?

Did you try the indoor antenna outside?

With an outdoor antenna, your signals are very strong, especially WUNI, which would overload an amp.

Your signals in green are all UHF, real channels 14-51, so you only need a UHF antenna.
Quote:
I am strapped for money, so I don't want to be sinking a lot into this endeavor.
We understand, and will keep that in mind, but the trees make it necessary to experiment with the antenna and its location to find a good spot. Maybe you could start with an attic if you have one, but I suspect you are right that it will need to be outside and high up to avoid the trees as much as possible.

Some UHF antennas to consider:
Antennas Direct C2
Antennas Direct DB2e
Antennas Direct DB4e for more gain

less expensive, quality not as good
http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/30-2425
http://www.solidsignal.com/pview.asp...u=700112818400

If your antenna is outdoors the coax shield should be grounded with a grounding block that is connected to the house electrical system ground with 10 gauge copper wire for electrical safety and to reject interference. For further compliance with the electrical code (NEC), the mast should also be grounded in a similar manner to drain any buildup of static charge, but the system will not survive a direct strike.

__________________
If you can not measure it, you can not improve it.
Lord Kelvin, 1883
http://www.megalithia.com/elect/aeri...ttpoorman.html

Last edited by rabbit73; 3-Nov-2015 at 7:31 PM.
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