Antenna Selection - HELP!

Dennis · 4-Dec-2011, 1:50 AM

First - Thanks for taking time to answer!

We have a ~30 y/old 'Wiengard' full size (analog) type antenna mounted in the attic. The signal strength is on-the-edge with pixelation/signal-loss happening frequently with any weather change.

Signal Map Link: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...ec123f8415086f

Please advise on suggested types of antenna(s), rotator, amplifier, etc. Also, any recommendations on cable-brands, balun/connector types & brands, would be welcome.

Thanks again,
Dennis

Dennis · 4-Dec-2011, 2:06 AM

First -- Thank You for assisting!

I want to upgrade an existing antenna (~30 y/o weingard-type analog) that is placed in the attic. I will likely place the new antenna in the attic as well.

The TV signals are often pixelated with weather changes, and more and more station-signals are becoming too weak to display.

Signal Map Link: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...ec123f8415086f

The height is approx 20+', the current antenna is connected to a 'converter' box ... to an analog tuner TV. What antenna types/brands, rotators, signal amps, connectors, etc. would give an optimal signal in this setting?

Thanks Again,
Dennis

GroundUrMast · 4-Dec-2011, 8:12 PM

If the signal from KGO, (broadcast on VHF CH-7) is strong and stable, I suspect the old antenna is a VHF only design. Unless it's damaged it would be useful and could continue in service, receiving VHF signals.

A UHF antenna is needed to reliably receive the majority of the available signals. Any of the 4-bay panel antennas would be a good choice. (U4000, DB-4, CS4, DB4e, CM4221 and HD4400) I would aim toward the NE (Sutro Tower)

http://www.antennacraft.net/index.html
http://www.antennasdirect.com/
http://www.channelmaster.com/default.asp
http://www.winegarddirect.com/

You would need a UVSJ to combine the signals from the VHF antenna with the UHF.

Connecting a few tuners should not require any amplifier.

If it turns out that your attic is a poor location for an antenna, (wet roofing attenuates and reflects more than dry, tile and metal are also unfriendly to TV & radio signals). A small RCA ANT-751 mounted outside would be an option. It has both UHF and VHF capability.

Electron · 4-Dec-2011, 9:57 PM

I recommend a one antenna solution , a Winegard HD7000R antenna aimed at about 350 degree magnetic compass. Here is how to aim antennas , http://www.kyes.com/pointing/pointing.html. Mount the antenna above the roof with one of these antenna mounts. http://www.ronard.com/909911.html , http://www.ronard.com/34424560.html , http://www.ronard.com/ychim.html. . The long rods at back of the antenna will help block multipath , ( reflected signals ) that are a real problem at your location between the mountains. Reflected signal interfer with a tv tuners ability to tune in channels. Here are some places to buy antennas and etc. , http://winegarddirect.com , http://www.solidsignal.com , http://www.amazon.com