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Are you wondering how to hook an antenna up to digital TV? Perhaps, you also wish to know how to tweak the antenna’s position to get better signal quality? In order to maximize the use of your HDTV, you need to connect to a satellite.
Fortunately, most television stations broadcast in high-definition signals. This means that you can get high-definition versions of local network shows by connecting a traditional, rabbit-like antenna. Doing so is simple and easy that even an average person can get it done in a few minutes.
This article shows you an easy step-by-step process of hooking an antenna up to an HDTV. But before you can do this, you have to make sure that you have everything you need and have determined important information related to your TV and the signal.
To prepare the connection, here are the steps you should do:
You can locate the antenna input either on the back or side of the TV. The antenna input comes in two main versions: the IEC and the coaxial RF.
The IEC, usually found in old CRT televisions, looks like a small cylinder with another smaller cylinder inside. Meanwhile, the coaxial RF, found in most modern TVs, resembles a threaded cylinder with a hole in the center.
Aside from virtually looking at the side or back of your TV, you can also check the manual or look up its model number on the internet to identify the antenna type.
The closer you are to broadcast stations, the more convenient for you to set up the antenna. You can do it by entering your address into a website wherein they check the map of the broadcast satellites near you.
With this information, you will know the suitable type of antenna you need. For example, if the nearest broadcast station is relatively far from your address, the traditional “rabbit ears” antenna may not be suitable.
There are four major types to choose from: the “rabbit ears,” flat, whip, and outdoor (UHF). The flat is the newest version of an antenna that has the most comprehensive range and reception compared to the other antennas.
If you are installing the antenna outside or farther from your TV, you need an extension cable. It is usually available online or in tech shops.
Small coaxial cables are also recommended for indoor antennas, especially if your digital TV has a smaller space for the antenna behind it.
Before attaching the antenna, make sure that your TV is turned off and unplugged. It will prevent any accident that will damage your equipment. Then, follow the step-by-step instructions below:
Attach the antenna into the input port. Tighten the connector. If you are utilizing a coaxial cable, attach the cable to the antenna and to the input port of the digital TV.
Plug the TV in and switch it on. Depending on the current network channel, you may start getting broadcasts from the nearby local stations.
Then, scan for television channels. In general, putting your digital TV to “TV” mode and turning over through the channels should solve this step.
Then again, this procedure differs from TV to TV, so refer to the manual or online instructions to do this properly.
If necessary, adjust or tweak your antenna for better reception. For rabbit ears antenna or roof-installed antenna, point it towards the nearest broadcast station. Another tip is to move the objects in your home that get in the way of the signal.
Tweaking the antenna is a trial-and-error procedure. It’s normal not to get it right on the first attempt. A flat antenna needs the least adjustment because it has a broader range and power than multi-directional and traditional antennae.
If you have a subscription to a satellite or cable television service, the non-HD and HD channels perhaps come in from a receiver that you mount to your digital TV. Usually, you buy it or rent it straight from the service provider. Nonetheless, there are few ways to install this receiver.
This should bring the TV signal into your digital TV. The cable that you use should have an RF connector on the edge that resembles the cable you used with the antenna. Connect the box into the jack-labeled input port.
Learning how to hook an antenna up to digital TV takes a little bit of patience and knowledge. With this informative step-by-step procedure, anyone can do it. It is pretty easy to do, especially for digital televisions and newer versions of cables such as the HDMI.
Make sure that your digital TV is turned off and unplugged from the power source to prevent any accidental damage. Work with dry hands because these cables and devices are conductors of electricity.
Connecting the antenna to your digital TV is the first thing to do to maximize your device. With a little patience in adjusting the antenna, you will successfully get signals from various broadcast channels.