Buzz
Today, Mytour will guide you through selecting and setting up a TV antenna.
Steps
Preparation
Identify the type of antenna connector on your TV. Almost every TV has an antenna input located on the back or side of the device; this is where you will plug in the antenna. There are two main types of inputs:
- Coaxial RF connector – Resembles a cylindrical screw with a hole in the middle. This is the standard connector on most modern TVs.
- IEC – A smooth cylinder with a smaller cylinder inside. You can find this connection on older CRT TVs.
- Refer to your TV's manual or look up the TV model online to confirm the antenna type once more.
Locate the nearest broadcast station. Enter your location along with the keyword "broadcast station" into Google. This will help you determine the type of antenna you need; for example, if the nearest station is quite far, a traditional "rabbit ears" antenna might not be ideal.
- If you're abroad, you can input your address on http://antennaweb.org/Address to view a map of nearby broadcast stations.
- The location of the broadcast station also helps you determine the direction to point your antenna when needed.
Purchase a TV antenna. If you don’t already have one (or want to upgrade to a stronger model), you can buy one online or at an electronics store. Here are some options:
- Flat antenna: This is the latest type of antenna, requiring minimal adjustment once installed near your TV. Flat antennas also offer superior range and reception compared to traditional models.
- "Rabbit ears" antenna: A set of two telescopic rods, this is one of the most commonly used types in households. Rabbit ears antennas are typically placed behind the TV and work well if you’re close to the broadcast station.
- Single-rod antenna: Consists of one telescopic rod (also called a single-rod antenna). It functions similarly to rabbit ears antennas in terms of performance and placement.
- Outdoor antenna (UHF – Ultra High Frequency): Larger, with multiple branches like a fishbone, and usually mounted on rooftops or balconies. Outdoor antennas are ideal for long-range connections, especially if you live in suburban areas.
Buy an extension cable if needed. Especially when setting up an outdoor antenna, you’ll need a coaxial RF cable to connect the antenna to your TV. These cables are available online or at electronics stores.
- If your TV doesn’t have an antenna input at the back, you’ll need a short extension cable to place the antenna indoors.
Connecting the Antenna
Turn off and unplug your TV. Press the "Power" button on your TV, then unplug it from the power outlet. This ensures your safety in case of any issues with the TV or antenna.
Connect the antenna to the input port. Locate the antenna port on the back of your TV, then plug in the antenna cable and tighten the connector if necessary.
- If you're using an extension cable, connect one end to the antenna and the other end to the TV's input port.
Plug the TV back in and turn it on. Depending on the current channel, you should be able to watch programs from local broadcast stations.
Scan for channels. This process varies by TV model, so consult your TV's manual or search online for specific instructions. Generally, you’ll need to set the input to "TV" and scan through the channels to find available broadcasts.
- If you know the exact channel numbers for local stations, try tuning directly to one of them with the input set to "TV".
Tips
- If you frequently need to adjust the antenna on your roof, consider installing an electric rotor to control the antenna's direction from inside your home.
- The RF input on your TV is also used for cable television connections.
- If you run cables outdoors or through your house, ensure they are properly shielded. This maintains high-quality signal transmission and protects the cables from damage or environmental factors.
Warnings
- Avoid purchasing satellite dish antennas advertised as receiving hundreds of channels using "RF technology" without paying for cable. This is a misleading description. You can only receive signals from broadcast channels within your area.
