Digitec Aerial & Satellite Services

What is A TV/SAT Attenuator and Do You Really Need One?

25/5/2020

There are high chances that this is the first time you hear about a TV/SAT attenuator. However, as an Aerial Fitter in Preston we do use these from time to time.

Before diving into this subject, I am aware that for most people, a lot of what is discussed in this blog are terms and subjects that are only of interest to other aerial & satellite engineers. The general public don’t really care how their TV works, so long as it does! It is only when they experience a problem, that some begin to take an interest. With that in mind, I will be discussing about a small often overlooked piece of equipment that does on occasion come in very handy. This is the Attenuator.

What is a TV/SAT attenuator?

So, what is an attenuator & what is it used for? Well in simple terms an attenuator is the reverse of an amplifier. Whereas an amplifier amplifies or increases a signal or sound, the attenuator reduces the signal or sound. In our case we look to it in order to reduce a satellite or digital signal from an aerial.

They are only small pieces of equipment and come with differing rates of signal reduction. It acts like a resistor and depending on the strength it is set to. There are attenuators that have a fixed amount set, such as a -10db reduction or there is the variable type that allows the amount to be set manually. They are designed in a way to provide a reduction or resistance in the signal without distorting it.

Why are they used?

The reasons they are used is to reduce the strength of a signal going to the television if the signal is too strong. The reason a strong digital signal can be a problem, is that if the signal going to the TV is over 90db then most TV’s will struggle to deal with that signal. This is known as over signalling.

Over Signalling

When this happens, the result is almost identical to having a very poor signal. Picture break up, freezing, sharp loud noises. On the odd occasion I come across this, I am called out because the customer thinks their aerial is failing and the signal is too weak. The ability of an attenuator to reduce the signal is a very simple solution and cost effective.

Why can a signal be too strong. Well, in my experience, one of the most common reasons, and in reality, it isn’t that common, is due to the set up of either 1 or more amplifiers. Not all homes are set up have a nice neat and orderly set up of its aerial system. Larger homes and businesses such as rest homes and hotels will quite often have one system on top of another.

Due to this I will often come across a set up where a set back amplifier is feeding into another amplifier and then into another. All of this is a complete no no when it comes to providing a trouble-free distribution system, but it happens never the less. In most cases a complete redesign and installation is not affordable, and a quicker and cheaper solution is required for the TV’s suffering from over signalling.

This is where I will employ the use of an attenuator for each of the TV’s suffering with over signalling. It would be better to remove the amplifier distributing to the TV’s but sometimes this isn’t always the cheaper solution for the customer.

Why?

Firstly, it can be very difficult to track the cable back to the amplifier (particularly within hotels that have dozens of rooms with TV’s in them)
It maybe the case that only a few of the outputs from the amp result in over signalling due to the run of the cables coming from and going to the television. (A shorter run of cable loses less db than a longer run).

So, for these reasons, using an attenuator each of the TV’s can sometimes be the best solution.

Digitec Aerials Preston

The Watermark,9 – 15 Ribbleton Lane,Preston,PR1 5EZ

Telephone: 01772 369629

https://goo.gl/maps/DJSyzCWAXBARELUa9

Is a Loft a Suitable Location for a Satellite Dish?

4/5/2020

I recently received a question from someone that had just moved into a new build property. They asked whether it would be possible to install a satellite dish for Freesat in the loft space. After quizzing the homeowner as to why they would want it in the loft, they said that the builders had run the twin satellite cable from the downstairs living room in to the loft along with the aerial cables.
So, giving that the cables were already there, they’d assumed that it was possible to successfully install a satellite dish within the loft, more information here.

Can a Satellite dish be fitted within a loft?

In order for a satellite dish to receive a good enough signal to use, it must have an unobscured line of sight. That means it cannot have anything in the way of the signal, such as buildings, trees and even branches with block a signal. Therefore, installing it within a loft would prohibit the dish from receiving any signal whatsoever. Unlike the signal for a TV aerial, the signal from the satellites that are in geostationary orbit is weaker and simply will not penetrate through the roof of a house.

Why do Home Builders leave the satellite cables in the loft?

So, if the satellite dish can’t be fitted in a loft, why are there satellite cables there? Well, in the process of installing the cable for the house, the fitter, usually an electrician runs the coax cable for the aerial points to one place in the loft, in order for an aerial installer to join to when fitting an aerial in the loft. It makes sense then to run the satellite cables there too, since all of the cables for the TV points can then be found in one place.
The electrician won’t know when installing the satellite cables, where exactly on the property the freesat or sky dish will be fitted. Due to this a central location that is easy to find is the best place for them to be run. The loft is the logical place for this. All the satellite engineer needs to do is to route the cables from the newly installed dish into the loft and connect up to the pre-installed cables.

Discreet Sky dish Installations

One of the reasons why we sometimes get asked if it is possible to fit a satellite dish in a loft is for the aesthetics of it. Some people really don’t like the look of either an aerial or a satellite dish on their property. They would prefer it was completely out of sight, including the cables. One of the services we provide is this kind of installation, but in all honesty there is only so much we can do. As mentioned before, the satellite dish must have a completely clear line of sight and this can restrict where on a property it can go. Then there is the run of cables and depending how many cables need running to which rooms in the house.

All of this can kind of hinder the attempt to reduce the visibility of unsightly cables and a satellite dish. However, if it can be done we can do it. We find that mounting a dish in a discreet location such as on a chimney stack for instance immediately reduces its visibility. Second, by running cable behind drain pipes and under the eaves can also make the wiring less visible. We have on a number of occasions fitted a sky dish to a pole at the bottom of a garden.

Each property is different but in most cases a discreet satellite installation can be possible to do.

Digitec Aerials Preston
Address: The Watermark,9 – 15 Ribbleton Lane,Preston,PR1 5EZ

Telephone: 01772 369629

Trees and Your TV and Satellite Signals

28/4/2020

We all know that trees are amazing. They’re a great part of the environment, and we need to plant more of them to take care of the Earth better. But one downside to having trees near your home is when they block your TV aerial or satellite signals. When you’re surrounded by trees, you might have poor TV reception.

Whether you live in Preston or anywhere else in the country, TV aerials need a clear space to catch signals, and your satellite dish needs a line of sight to get signals from Earth’s orbit. Unfortunately, it only takes a handful of trees to interrupt your late-night TV binge.

Why do trees affect your TV signals?

Trees can cause a host of problems for your TV reception, but, thankfully, there are steps you can take to help. There is always a way around your tree vs. signal dilemma. Trees do affect specific channels more than others, so you might have a tree issue but get some channels okay while others are missing entirely.

Common causes for loss of signal

Satellite Dishes for Sky & Freesat

Satellite dishes used for Freesat & Sky TV receive signals from satellites in Earth’s orbit and come in at high frequencies. The frequencies have a small wavelength, and most obstructions (trees) are closer to the satellite dish (receiver) than the satellite (transmitter). This means that satellite dishes need a line of sight to the satellite, or you will have poor reception and may lose channels altogether. Higher frequencies and shorter wavelengths are more apt to absorb into the surrounding trees than hit your dish.

Every satellite that delivers TV orbits around the equator. In the northern hemisphere, satellite dishes point south, and in the southern hemisphere, they point north. This means that if you have trees in the opposite direction, they will not affect your TV signals. If you have trees in the same direction as your dish, you will almost certainly have issues.

Tree Growth & Moving Foliage

Of course, another issue is that trees are growing throughout the year, and some trees can grow quickly. A tree that isn’t causing a problem one year can disrupt your signal the next. The more growth you have, the more likely it is that your signal will get interrupted.

Trees are also prone to move in the wind, especially gales. Moving trees naturally cause disruptions with your TV signals. Your picture might break up or pixelate, and you could lose service entirely. Moving trees are typically not a permanent issue, but they can cause problems during a storm. Higher frequency signals are more likely to lose track during a gale.

Seasons

Trees also change during the changing of the seasons. Starting in spring and lasting through fall, your trees will grow leaves, which can contribute to poor TV reception. Leaves cause more organic material that the TV signals have to pass through to get to your home. You might have a situation where the signal is perfect during the winter and starts failing when the leaves grow.

Solutions

The problems above can be detrimental to your TV watching experience, but there is a solution to every problem. Work through some of the fixes below and see whether you can get a better signal and reception. If all else fails, there are two fail-safe methods outlined at the end.

Move It

One obvious answer to your issue is to move the satellite dish so that the trees are no longer causing a problem. This entails removing, moving, and installing the dish higher up on your house. One excellent option is using your chimney to hold the satellite dish. You can use a mast and brackets to attach to the chimney or another high part of your house. Call a professional to help with re-installation.

In some cases, after you move the dish, the trees still block your signal. You need to work to find the best position and get creative with placement.

If you have an aerial instead of a satellite dish, you can also move it to avoid the trees. Try putting the aerial on your roof, or if it is already on your roof, place it in a higher spot. You can try using a crank mast to point the aerial around the trees. If none of this works, you might get a better signal by putting the aerial in a loft.

Re-Align or Change It

If you can’t move the position or you already have, and the signal still isn’t perfect, you can try re-aligning your device. You can also try a different transmitter that is less affected by the trees. There are other options, including a higher gain aerial or a TV signal amplifier.

Re-align your existing aerial from the old transmitter to the new and make sure that the aerial polarisation is accurate. The TV antenna should also be compatible with the new transmitter.

Instead of changing your transmitter, you can also swap your aerial for a dish or vice versa. Trees that block an aerial may not block a satellite dish, and the same goes in the other direction. Swapping out your device might be the best solution to a tough situation.

Stream Your TV

Changing the position and re-aligning your device doesn’t work in every situation. If you’re less worried about live TV and just want to watch your favorite shows when it suits you, you can switch to a streaming service. Streaming services like Netflix allow you to watch what you want on-demand, and they don’t require a satellite or aerial. All you need is a stable internet connection.

Cut Down the Trees

If all else fails and you’re not interested in streaming TV shows, your last resort might be cutting down some of the bothersome trees. You can call a professional tree surgeon to help prune our cut down trees that are blocking your TV signal.

If the trees aren’t on your property, you can call your local government about cutting the trees, or talk to your neighbour about pruning parts of their trees — how you remove them depends on whether they’re on public or private land.

Moving

Of course, the most drastic option to receive a better signal is to move houses. It's rare, but it does happen that a household wants a better TV signal and decides that the best option for them is to change where they live. If you choose to go this route, make sure that you test the new property or home to see whether it does get a better signal than your old house.

The last thing you want is to buy or build a new home only to discover that you're in the same situation when it comes to the TV signal.

Conclusion

Trees cause a lot of problems but, thankfully, there are plenty of solutions from which to choose. While not everyone is willing to cut down their trees or even move to a new house just for better TV signals, those are always options.

Many people can get better reception simply by following one of the milder steps outlined above. You can move your satellite dish or aerial, re-align your transmitter, or swap one device for another.

If you end up frustrated and unable to get the best position, you can also forgo the aerial and satellite dish and switch to streaming your shows only. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu offer hundreds of TV shows and movies for a low monthly fee. Some streaming platforms also have the option of watching live TV at an additional cost. However, streaming does require a stable internet connection, which is not always feasible.

At the end of the day, no matter what problem you have, there is a solution.

Digitec Aerials Preston
The Watermark, 9 – 15 Ribbleton Ln, Preston PR1 5EZ
https://goo.gl/maps/DJSyzCWAXBARELUa9

Signal Strength V's Signal Quality

28/4/2020

Most satellite television menus will provide users with some sort of measurement of the signal they are receiving. In most cases, this will be displayed in terms of “Signal Strength” and “Signal Quality.” But what do these terms actually mean? Can you alter them? Moreover, what impact do they actually have on the quality of the picture on your television set? As TV Aerial Installers in Preston we will attempt to clearly explain what the difference is.

Before we begin this discussion, it’s important to note that all televisions and television services are different. Not everybody will be able to find a reading on their signal’s strength or quality, and some will only see arbitrary numbers or percentages that seem to have no meaning. Still, regardless of what is displayed, it is still helpful to know what this information means for your signal.

This is Just a Guide

Whenever I install aerials or satellite dishes, I use a device known as a Horizon Meter. This meter provides measurements on signal strength, potential interference, and more. I mention this because the signal measurements that you get from this device are far more accurate then what you will find in your television or satellite menus. So while you can technically get some information from these sources, you should take it with a grain of salt until you use a device like this.

Televisions Don’t Provide Enough Information

One of the biggest issues with the signal readings you get from your satellite box or television is that these devices don’t tell you how they’re reading and measuring the signal. As I mentioned, you’ll usually only be given a percentage, signal bars, or a set of numbers that are meaningless unless you know how to read them. This can lead to a lot of misleading results and cause a lot of confusion as to why you might not be getting everything you paid for. In some cases, TVs will give you a Bit Error Ration (BER), which is far more useful than the generic data other models offer.

Having 100% Signal Isn’t That Important

The problem with signals that are presented as percentages is that signals aren’t measured this way. This means that whatever number you see is practically useless as far as conveying information. If you see a signal rating of 100%, you might assume there is no room for improvement on the signal, but this isn’t true. You can always get a stronger signal by installing a TV amplifier or high-gain aerial. Of course, doing this arbitrarily – without consulting a professional – can lead to having too much signal, which can overload tuners and equipment and make your signal worse.

The Real Focus Should Be On Quality

You should always expect your TV signal to be a full bar or (if we must use it as a measurement) a full 100%. This generally conveys that everything is working as expected, and the signal won’t cause any issues with your reception. If you are given a different reading, you should first check the tuning of your television and other equipment. In the end, your main focus should be on the reading for quality, not the reading for strength. This is the only real indicator that the signal might be worth looking into.

There is No Real “Standard” for How Signals Are Read

You might plug one TV in and find fully-rated signal strength and quality, then plug in another brand to find completely different readings. This has nothing to do with the signal per se, but with the way that different TVs and Set-Top Boxes read and display the signal info. Ultimately, there is no “industry standard” for how televisions do this.

Correctly Reading TV Signal Strength

In order to read your television’s signal strength correctly, you need to know exactly how they are measured. Put simply: a TV signal is a voltage measured in units called dB micro-volts. The scale starts at 0dB, or 1 micro-volt, and continues upward. In most cases, when you have a weak signal, a small adjustment of the dB can really help.

For reference, here is a quick guide to the MINIMUM signal strength levels of several types of televisions.

Terrestrial Digital TV – 50dB
Analogue TV – 60dB
Satellite TV – 52dB

Correctly Reading TV Signal Quality

With digital television signals, the quality or the “robustness” is often measured by evaluating the signal strength minus the electrical noise that can come from various interfering sources. As these noises are present inside the actual signal, relying on the measurement of the signal’s strength alone will not determine the overall quality. In the end, the more actual signal that can be received by the TV transmitter, the more protection the device will have from noise and interference.

You can measure signal quality in a few different ways:

Signal to Noise Ratio (S/N)

This is the measurement of the peak signal reading and the noise floor of the signal, but ignores noise present in the signal itself.

Carrier to Noise Ratio (C/N)

This measures the signal floor and compares it to the signal being received. It doesn’t measure any noise present in the signal, but it does account for it.

Modulation Error Ration (MER)

Considered the best measurement for digital TV signal reliability; this measures both the signal and the noise present inside of it.

Bit Error Ratio (BER)

There will always be some errors in a digital signal – it’s unavoidable. That is why signals have a built-in error correction known as FEC or Viterbi EC. When you see that 100% reading, you are seeing no errors because correction has already automatically taken place. When there are errors still present after correction, you will see pixelated or blocky images.

The Truth About Amplifiers

Many people assume that the installation of a booster or TV aerial amplifier will increase the signal strength reading on their receiver. Such devices are a good idea if the goal is to overcome signal loss, and they should be installed as close to the aerial as possible (but not within one meter) in order to function well.

If you place the device too close to your television, for instance, you will boost the levels of electrical noise in the signal and introduce new noise to the readings. You also risk overloading the equipment, which is just as bad for the picture as a weak signal.

As a rule of thumb, amplifiers are best used where the signal enters the TV tuner in a weakened state. This should help boost the signal enough to maintain reliable reception.

Conclusion

It’s important to remember – despite all this information – that the signal and quality readings reported by your TV should only serve as a rough guide. As you can see, there is much more that goes into the process, and those who try to make adjustments on their own often do much more harm than good.

When in doubt, contact a professional and have them evaluate your signal, TV, tuner, and / or amplifier with high-quality equipment.

As always, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to send them my way!
Cheers.

Digitec Aerials Preston
The Watermark, 9 – 15 Ribbleton Ln, Preston PR1 5EZ
Tel: 01772 369629
https://goo.gl/maps/DJSyzCWAXBARELUa9

Is There the Possibility from an Electric Shock When Working the Cable of Your TV Aerial or Sat?

10/4/2020

There are cases when the owners of a TV aerial or sat wish to cut or slice the coaxial cable that is feeding energy to the aerial or satellite dish. Considering that electrical power runs through this cable, many think that it’s risky to try cutting this cable. But, is it really the case? In the lines that follow you will find out everything, you need to know on this matter. So, if you’re looking to shorten a coax cable that is too long, at the end of the article you will know whether the operation is risky or not.

Whatever you do, do not take this matter lightly. We are talking, after all, of cables that have a continuous stream of electrical power running through them. So, if you want to cut such a coaxial cable, turning off the power for the appliance it is connected to is the best way to go. We are not however, talking here about electrical cabling.

Let your family know that the power will be down for a small amount of time and turn off the power supply of the appliance. This way you make sure that your cable is no longer supplied with energy during the operation. If you have any concerns regarding the operation, you can always contact a reliable electrician or aerial fitter. It is even recommended to do so if you don’t know the best means to complete the operation in a safe manner.

Is there any current in the cables feeding TV and radio aerials?

This type of cables cannot work if the electric current is not going through them. Thus, they need electrical power to run through them so they can do their job right. The job of your aerial is to get radio frequencies that run across the atmosphere and then transfer them to the cable that goes to your TV. More precisely, the signal captured by the aerial is actually alternating current electricity. But its frequency is much higher than of your home’s electrical supply. However, this won’t make cutting a coaxial cable an impossible task. The voltage going through the cable will be much lower than that captured initially by the aerial.

Is there any current in the coaxial cables powering satellite dishes?

The functioning principle of this coaxial cable is the same as that presented earlier, in the case of TV and radio aerials. The satellite dish will capture signals coming from a satellite providing TV services and will transmit the signals to a satellite receiver through a coaxial cable. The current is yet again involved to make this aspect happen. In most cases, a Freesat or Sky box is used or a TV that is equipped with a satellite tuner.

However, satellite dishes work in a different manner than aerials. When signals are captured by the satellite dish, they are first beamed down to earth before reaching the satellite receiver. Because of this, the satellite LNB will have to amplify the signal before sending it to the receiver, as it comes at a very low level. The LNB won’t be able to perform this operation without current. Thus, the satellite receiver will provide DC voltage in a continuous manner to the LNB. This means, usually, 13V DC, and in the case of Quad LNBs a value of 18V DC.

The values mentioned earlier are much higher than the passive cables used for TV and radio aerials, but, even so, they are far from the limit meant to cause harm. Thus, these numbers should not scare you. Still, if you do get an electric shock from such a coaxial cable, you will feel it, without a doubt. This usually happens because, in most cases, when working on such a cable you’re anchored to a ladder made out of metal. And we all know that metal is a good current conductor. The “shock” feeling is more intense during rainy weather, as water makes it worse and propagates it faster. Again, all of this won’t cause you any harm, but it will be unpleasant and will trigger a level of discomfort.

Communal TV systems are different

If you’re TV is connected to a communal TV system, you should know that this system is different from conventional TV systems. The difference is set by the fact that one single system can feed a high number of TV equipment. For example, if there are 100 flats in the building where you live, all 100 will be fed by the same communal TV system. Thus, the number of amplifiers and other pieces of equipment will be much higher and, therefore, there will be an accumulated voltage effect in this case.

So, if you end up working on a communal TV system, you may end up affecting the functionality of several TVs, if not of all of them. In other words, your neighbours may get out of their homes to yell at you that their TVs are not working any longer. Making adjustments, in this case, could be more difficult, due to the large number of users connected to the same system. If you don’t have too many neighbours using the same system, it may be worth talking to them, to all of them, and get their approval while also setting a time and date for the operation to take place.

Some electrical shocks are not dangerous, apparently

According to some specialists, the human organism is capable of absorbing electric shocks of up to 50V, without risking significant harm or injuries. Thus, considering the values mentioned earlier, the value of the voltage you’ll subject yourself to will not be in the dangerous range. Precisely because the upper limit is 50V, many systems are made to operate below this value so they won’t represent a threat to people’s lives. POE systems or Power over Ethernet range in the 24 to 48V area, as an example. Of course, this upper limit is a generally-set value and may not apply to everybody. Some may be more sensitive than others, so precaution is advised.

Poor or faulty electrical installation may represent a greater risk for shocks

So far, we talked about systems and installations that are done according to standards. If the electrical installation you’re about to work on is faulty or poorly set, the risk you may be facing is greater. In other words, your coaxial cable may run current of a higher voltage than in a normal situation. The good news is represented by the fact that there is no outer case made out of metal, as it happens in the case of a fridge or washing machine. Also, in most cases, there isn’t an earth connection present in the main plug.

The conclusion is that the aerial plus is the only piece of metal exposed outside the TV that could represent a degree of risk. This is translated into the possibility of an unwanted voltage to reside in this particular piece of metal. However, most TV types, including LED and OLED, rarely go anywhere near a voltage that is high and dangerous.

You should also know that even a poor electrical installation is incapable of delivering high voltage values. This could be possible only in the case of a very old installation that is away from today’s range of standards. Systems used nowadays generally include an MCB or RCD that will immediately cut down the power if anything out of the ordinary is sensed.

What you can do to stay on the safe side

Even if the cases in which you can get hurt are quite rare and they mean the occurrence of particular conditions, you should always take proper safety measures and precautions. Because you are working with electric power, safety is advised at all times, no matter how small the voltage is. So, here is what you can do to make sure you’re working in safe conditions:

All TV equipment should be switched off before you start working on the cables;
It is strongly recommended to also switch off the electric supply leading to all your equipment in the house;
Utilise cutters and tools that are made to provide adequate insulation against electric current. An adequate set for an electrician will provide protection of up to 1000V;
You can increase the level of safety by earthing your TV system. You can do so on the spot, with the help of an earth bonding. This will allow you to work on the system without any risks involved;
If you have any doubts about how to handle this matter properly, you can always hire a trained professional.

So, in general, working on coaxial cables or cables feeding TV and radio aerials does not represent a danger to your health and well-being. The value of the voltage going through these cables is much below the limit that could make this kind of work hazardous. But, even so, taking safety measures is strongly recommended. Don’t start working on the cable until you made sure that you will be in complete safety. Also, if you don’t want to take care of this part on your own, calling over a professional is always best.

How Long Will a Satellite Dish Last?

2/4/2020

satellite dish with lnb for sky or freesat

You’re planning to invest money in a satellite dish? In this case, most certainly you’re interested in the life span of such an item. How much will a satellite dish last before it needs replacement? Which satellite dishes are more resilient than others? And how to make sure you’re getting the right kind of satellite dish? Considering that some satellite dishes don’t come cheap, some more than others, you want to make sure your money will be well spent.

Of course, the life span of a satellite dish also depends on the way it was installed and how it is maintained over time. The installation process is extremely important and can lead to significant damages to the dish if it is not done right. So, if you don’t think you can handle this correctly, it would be best to have a professional take care of this part. Also, if branches and debris end up on the satellite dish after bad weather, it would be ideal to clean it and check if everything is in place properly. Taking good care of your satellite dish will certainly expand its lifetime.

The quality of the dish will influence this aspect

Just as it happens in the case of anything else, a quality dish will last longer than a dish of a precarious quality. This is because high-quality dishes are made out of more resilient materials, serving you well for extended periods. While it may be attractive to buy a more affordable satellite dish, bear in mind that you may need to replace it sooner than planned.

So, instead of buying two satellite dishes in a rather short period, it would be wiser to spend a bit more money to get a more reliable dish. This way, you won’t end up in the unpleasant situation of not having any signal to watch your favourite TV shows.

Take a good look at what the dish is made of

As mentioned earlier, the materials out of which a satellite dish is made will significantly influence its lifespan. So, take a good look at this part before making a purchase.

Dishes made out of painted steel

The typical zone1 & 2 satellite Dishes made out of steel protected by a layer of paint are probably the most common types of dishes you can find on the market. The best part about steel is that it is quite resilient and it’s not expensive, which translates into more affordable satellite dishes. However, even if this kind of satellite dish seems like a good investment, there’s one downside you need to bear in mind. Once the layer of paint starts to chip and the steel is exposed, the dish will slowly begin to rust.

Dishes made out of aluminium

Aluminium is also sturdy and, in comparison to steel, it does not rust. Thus, an aluminum satellite dish may last longer than a steel dish. So, if you are interested in this option, you will find quite a few aluminium satellite dishes on the market. But, be prepared to reach deeper into your pocket if you want to buy one. They cost more than steel versions, so it is worth seeing if the expense is really justified.

Dishes made out of fibreglass

This particular type of satellite dish is the most resilient of all. Fiberglas will certainly not rust and will maintain its shape and particularities for a very long time, regardless of conditions. If you live in harsher conditions, like on the seaside where the air is saltier, investing in a fibreglass dish may represent a better option. But, no matter how great fibreglass dishes are, they are also the most expensive. So, you will have to check your budget and reasons for purchasing one first.

Dishes covered with mesh

There are also dishes made out of painted metal frame, covered with a mesh, instead of having an entire body made out of metal. The mesh will take away a good part of the load created by winds, so this type of dish can be a better option for areas subjected to strong or frequent winds. Usually, this type of dish is light and easy to install. However, it still has a metal frame that could rust if the layer of paint gets damaged. But the fact that it is not expensive makes it a good option.

Living in the proximity of the sea will diminish the dishs' lifespan

While living beside the sea is great, dreamlike even, the external conditions of such an environment will rapidly damage your satellite dish. The closer your home is to the sea, the faster your satellite dish will get damaged. So, you may just get a couple of years from your satellite dish, in these circumstances.

If you want to avoid replacing your satellite dish often, choosing an aluminium dish or one made out of fibreglass is a much better option. As a piece of advice, the mounting brackets should be galvanised and the fixings or washes to be made out of stainless steel. This way, you prevent rust from dripping on your home’s walls.

A professional did not install the dish

A satellite dish will have to withstand all kinds of weather, as it sits outside, where wind and rain will always affect it. This is why a satellite dish should be installed correctly so that it won’t become unstable and risk falling off the house. If this happens, the damage could be permanent. Besides this, a dish that has not been installed correctly may lose its signal on windy weather. This is, obviously, something very unpleasant and frustrating. Plus, going up the roof in windy conditions is not a good idea, as it can put you in danger.

While it is not that pleasant to get more money out of your pocket for the installation of a satellite dish, you should have a professional cover this part. Proper installation can prolong its life and, respectively, the use of a satellite dish. A professional will know how to take care of this matter so that your satellite dish won’t get damaged by the weather or hit by any nearby items.

How’s the climate in your area?

The lifespan of a satellite dish is also influenced by the climate of the area where it is installed. If you live in an area exposed to hurricanes, you should expect such a violent climatic episode to take a toll on your satellite dish. So, what can you do to protect your satellite dish against bad weather?

If you live in an area where the weather can turn out to be rather dangerous, you should find a location for your dish that keeps it safe for as much as it is possible. Again, the importance of having a specialist over for its installation, in this case, is even more underlined. A professional will look for the ideal spot for your dish so that it will get a proper signal while minimising the chances of weather-inflicted damages.

The dish is placed in areas with significant exposure to damage

Are you considering placing your satellite dish next to a pathway or in reach of others? While this may be a comfortable option for you, take into consideration the risks to which you expose your dish. For example, if you can reach your satellite dish with your hands, others may as well. So, you may end up having the unpleasant surprise of having your dish stolen off the wall of your house. This can happen and has happened to some people because their dish was in easy reach.

Also, having a satellite dish installed in reach or in the proximity of a pathway may get the dish damaged sooner than it should. For instance, balls can hit the dish and inflict damages or the dish may get vandalised by ill-intended people. You may never find the vandals, having to buy another dish if the damage is consistent. So, as a general rule, you should install your satellite dish away from the reach of others.

The average lifespan of a satellite dish

Now that you know what can prolong and diminish the lifespan of a satellite dish, you’re wondering what’s the average value of this lifespan? If all the right conditions are met, how much can you use a satellite dish? Again, these values are approximate and are influenced by the area where you live. As a general rule, people living inland where climate conditions are normal could use a satellite dish for about 10 years. Of course, this period can be longer if you get a high-quality dish and you opt for proper installation. Besides this, there are the following conditions:

The average lifespan for a satellite dish installed on the seaside is of 8 years;
The average lifespan for a satellite dish installed on the seafront is of 4 years;

As a conclusion, use all the information you found out in this article to pick the right satellite dish for you. Take into account the materials, price, location, and weather to make an adequate choice that will allow you to enjoy your dish for as much as it is possible.

Are There Any Differences between Zone 1 and Zone 2 Satellite Dishes?

1/4/2020

Are you planning to get Freesat or Sky services in the UK? Then you probably know that you’ll have to install a satellite dish to make this happen. However, this is not always an easy task. As soon as you start checking out the steps required to install a satellite dish, you noticed that there are two options. You either go for a Zone 1 or Zone 2 satellite dish. Now, the question is which one to pick. What are the differences between these two types of satellite dishes? We did our best to bring some light into this matter and help you make an informed choice.

The Zone 1 satellite dish

We will start by first describing the particularities of the Zone 1 satellite dish. With a diameter of 43 centimetres, the Zone 1 satellite dish consists of a steel round frame covered with a mesh. It usually has a dark colour, like navy blue, but if this doesn’t suit you, you can easily pain the dish according to your preferences. This particular type of satellite dish is mostly used in the midlands and south part of the UK, to get the Freesat or Sky services installed on the TV.

The Zone 2 satellite dish

Then there’s the Zone 2 satellite dish. This one is larger, featuring a diameter of 60 centimetres. It also features a body made out of a steel frame, covered by a mesh of a dark colour. Regarding the area of usage, Zone 2 satellite dishes are most commonly used in the north part of the UK and Scotland.

Besides the visible size, there are other particularities that set this dish apart from the Zone 1 version. It features a distinct mounting arm, utilised for the mounting of the dish. So, you will have to clamp the dish onto this arm and then safely insert the arm in the mounting bracket. In the case of Zone 1 dishes, this arm is part of the dish, not being a separate part, and the mounting is done by simply inserting it in the mounting bracket.

Why these two satellite dishes are used in different areas?

The main purpose of satellite dishes is to get signals from satellites, which broadcast the TV services we are looking to enjoy. In order to serve all areas, satellites are located in the sky at different distances. So, the reason various areas across the UK use different types of satellite dishes lies entirely in the distance between these satellites. In other words, if you want to get a signal from a particular satellite, recommended for your area, but you use the wrong kind of satellite dish, you won’t be able to enjoy a proper signal.

Now, the satellites broadcasting Freesat and Sky signals are orbiting around the earth’s Equator, as all satellites do. Bearing this in mind, the south of the UK will get better signals than the north of the country, which will require larger satellite dishes to enjoy a proper signal.

The frequencies used by satellite broadcasting TV services are already very high. This means that toward the north, the signal gradually dissipates, becoming weaker, which means that larger satellite dishes are needed. Of course, this doesn’t mean a smaller dish won’t work in the north part of the country. It will work, but there are higher chances for it to fail to provide a signal of the desired quality. This is more frequent when the weather is bad, like when it rains.

Is it possible to use a Zone 2 satellite dish in Zone 1?

As mentioned earlier, Zone 2 satellite dishes are larger and, therefore, more capable of providing a stronger signal. Thus, if you’re living in the south of the UK or Midlands, using a Zone 2 dish will give you the possibility of enjoy better signals. So, although you can opt for a smaller dish, using a larger one will help you avoid any issues.

However, you need to decide whether you won’t be bothered by the presence of a larger dish on your home. With a larger diameter, the Zone 2 dish will be easily noticed. Besides this, it will cost a bit more than the Zone 1 dish, (it is also worth noting that a larger dish may not last as long due to exposure to the weather). In other words, you will have to consider budget and aesthetics before making this decision.

Is it possible to use a Zone 1 satellite dish in Zone 2?

While no one stops you from using a Zone 1 satellite dish if you’re living up in the north or Scotland, specialists won’t recommend you doing so. The installation of this satellite dish can be done with ease and it is rather discreet, in terms of size.

The reason it is not recommended to use a Zone 1 satellite dish in Zone 2 is that the signal is weaker in this part of the country. Thus, a smaller dish like Zone 1 may encounter problems when it comes to providing a good signal. In this case, you may experience pixels or blocks appearing on the TV’s image, blurry signal, or no signal whatsoever.

Can these dishes be used for anything else?

The Zone 1 and Zone 2 satellite dishes are mostly used for Freesat and Sky services, and they do a great job in this direction, but can they be used for other purposes? For instance, is it possible to enjoy foreign signals? Well, it is worth knowing you can, but the options are limited. So, you may want to exploit these options and see what you can find. However, if you have a Zone 1 satellite dish, especially if you live in the north, don’t expect too many. A larger dish, like the Zone 2 satellite dish will be much more appropriate if you want to expand its uses and enjoy foreign satellites, as it is more capable of capturing signals coming from satellites.

At this point, you know the differences between these two satellite dishes and you’re more than capable of making the best choice in your case. Besides taking the area where you live into consideration, think about whether you want to enjoy foreign satellites, for instance, or whether you’ll be bothered by a large dish at your house.

Satellite Dishes Are Pointing Toward the South: Why Is That?

27/3/2020

Installing a satellite dish can help you enjoy better TV services, like a clearer image or a wider spectrum of services. However, if you want to maximise the use of your satellite dish, you will have to find a good spot for it. This spot means to also determine what’s the best direction for the satellite dish. As you are about to find out, it’s recommended to position a satellite dish toward the south, so that it receives signals coming from that direction. Why is this happening? You’ll find out all about it in the coming lines.

The Equator represents the orbit for most satellites

No matter how useful this article will be for most readers, those living in New Zealand, Australia and other countries around the southern hemisphere may find this content confusing. Because you already live near the Equator, the direction for your satellite dishes is not south. For the rest of us, who live in the northern hemisphere, the satellites we need to enjoy TV services will revolve around the Equator. These satellites orbit around the Equator and have the same rotation speed as the Earth, which is extremely useful for us. This way, we can constantly track the satellites, without having to use special devices.

So, no matter what kind of TV services you want to enjoy, if you live in the northern hemisphere, you will have to make your satellite dish point toward the south. This will ensure the best signals from satellites, which translates into great TV services. What you need to adjust is the elevation and azimuth, based on the kind of services you want to enjoy. Also, you may have to pay attention to the size of the satellite dish you are looking to use. Depending on the TV services you want to have on the TV, choose a satellite dish of adequate size, capable of receiving a signal from the desired satellite and TV transmitter.

How are things in the southern hemisphere

So far, we talked about the northern hemisphere and how satellite dishes have to be positioned over here. But what about the southern hemisphere? How should satellite dishes be positioned in this part of the globe? Considering that satellites orbit around the Equator and you are located south of this invisible line, satellite dishes will have to point north in this case.

However, if you live very close to the Equator, then the dish will have to simply point toward the sky, being positioned in an upward manner. So, instead of mounting the satellite dish on your house’s wall, it would be best, in this case, to mount it on the top of your house.

How to select the best location for your satellite dish

Let’s say you have a satellite dish and you’re looking for the best place to mouth it. While placing it on the outside, where the signal is the strongest, is the best way to go, you should also find a location that will ensure a maximum-strength signal. As mentioned earlier, making your satellite dish point toward the south is how you can make this happen. So, it is recommended to install the dish on a wall facing the south. Determine the cardinal points in the case of your house and see which of its walls is facing the south. This will be the best position for installing your satellite dish.

If you select a south-facing wall, you should not encounter any troubles when installing the dish. The most problematic part of the process may be the installation of the coaxial cable. But, apart from this, everything should run smoothly. What are the problems that may appear during the installation process of the satellite dish? Well, for example, the south wall, where the dish should be mounted, is on the opposite part of the house from where you want to install the receiver. What does this mean?

It means that the living room of your house, where the satellite receiver should go, is located in the north part of the house. In this case, you will have to figure a way to have cables going from the receiver to the satellite dish. These cables should go around the house, through the loft, or anywhere else you consider suitable.

However, mounting a satellite dish on the south wall is not always the best option. For instance, if there are large trees blocking the signal in that part of the house, you will have to find a better location for the dish. Do your best to have the dish pointing toward the south, while avoiding the blockages created by the nearby trees.

What if the north wall is the best option?

There are situations in which the options for mounting a satellite dish are rather limited. This happens in the case of those living in the city, where signal problems may appear from all over, due to large buildings and other impediments. So, what if you need to install your satellite dish on the north wall? Is this even possible? The answer is yes, you can make this happen, but with a few things in mind. Considering that you will mount the dish on the opposite direction of the azimuth, you will have to make the dish go over the building. This means that you will need to install proper brackets that will help the dish go over the building, capturing signal coming from the right direction.

To do this right, it’s recommended to use “K” and “T” wall brackets. Also, get a pole that has a diameter of 2 inches, which is sturdy enough to prevent the dish from wobbling. This can lead to poor signal, so it is worth making the dish as stable as possible. How to tell what’s the best height for the pole that will hold the dish? You will have to consider a few things before deciding upon this aspect. First, you will need to determine the height required to pass the object you want to clear and find out the height, on the sky, of the satellite you want to get signal from. Use these two pieces of information to determine the best height for your satellite dish.

Don’t install the satellite dish at a height that is more than you need. The higher the dish will stand, the higher is the risk for it to move under the action of the wind. If this happens, you will experience a bad signal on days with bad weather, which is undesirable. So, take the roof of the house, steep of the wall, existent trees in the proximity of the dish, and other possible obstructions into account. For example, a roof that is rather short will not require a tall mast. In this case, get a mast that is sufficient to raise the dish above the roof, considering there aren’t any other obstacles in its way. Maintain the height to a minimum for as much as it is possible and there won’t be any issues. Also, it is worth will working out the route in for the twin coax cable.

A proper satellite dish installation will mean a long-time use of the equipment

Although it may seem like a simple process, paying attention to each of the steps required to install a satellite dish can make a huge difference. From getting a high-quality signal to keeping the dish safe against damages and bad weather, the installation process can have an impact on all of these. Don’t consider sufficient to simply mount a satellite dish on top of the house, pointing toward the sky. If you do so, you’ll realise that your TV shows no image or the image is poor and unstable.

Positioning the satellite dish in the right direction will allow you to enjoy top quality TV services for very many years to come. So, it may be worth taking the time to determine the best location for your satellite dish. Also, make sure it is mounted correctly and all screws are tightly fixed. Pay extra attention to cables as well, as they are most prone to a variety of damages. If you don’t think you can handle this part on your own, it is always worth calling in an expert.

You will pay some money on the installation process, but at least you will know that it is done right. There are more than enough cases in which satellite dishes or aerials fell from their position, which means that installation was not done right. The biggest risk, in this case, is significant damage to the dish, which may put you in the situation of having to buy another dish.

Everything You Need to Know about TV Input and Output Ports

27/3/2020

A TV is easy to understand when you look at it from the front. But once you turn it around and face its back, things can get rather complicated. There are a few ports at the back of the TV that serve a variety of purposes. If you want to know what each of them does, it is worth reading the explanations mentioned below. This way, next time you want to perform a set-up process on your TV, & instead of calling a TV installation expert, you’ll know what to do.

SCART or Euroconnector

It is impossible to miss the SCART connection because it is usually rather large and hangs on the outside. Regarding its functionality, the SCART connection is located in an inferior position compared to an HDMI connection. But, even so, it used to be one of the most used connections of a TV. What was it used for? People utilized this connection to install satellite receivers, DVD players, and other types of devices. The SCART connection is also known as Euroconnector, as it used to be very popular in Europe.

In the USA, this type of connection never managed to gain too much terrain. The fact that it was created in Europe is also reflected by the name of the connection, as SCART comes from the French “Syndicat des Constructeurs d'Appareils Radiorécepteurs et Téléviseurs”. If you use this type of connection and you’ve lost the sound but the image appears to be fine, or the other way around, it may be due to the fact that the SCART has moved from its position a little. Also, if you want to move your TV on the wall, a SCART connection won’t fit in the back, as it is too large for this.

The HMDI input

These days, this is probably the most used type of input in the case of TVs. When you want to connect any audio-video equipment to your TV, an HDMI input will make it happen. The modern TVs that can be found in stores today have more than one HDMI input available. This is due to the fact that HDMI inputs can be used for both audio and video and because we tend to use a number of pieces of equipment at once with our TV. Because it is so popular and used, the technology behind this type of connection is constantly improved. So, in the future, it will be able to transport even more data than today, being even more effective. This is why this type of connection is recommended in most cases.

The Ethernet input

This type of input is available only in the case of smart TVs, as this connection allows the TV to gain access to the Internet. This connection is also known as RJ45 or 8P8C. What’s interesting is that even “non”-smart TVs, belonging to the previous generations, featured an RJ45 connection. This was used not to watch movies online, but to access local internet connection for software updates.

The optical input/output

Also known as the Tos-link, the optical output is used for connecting digital audio equipment to the TV. So, with its help, you can enjoy soundbars, amplifiers, and AV receivers together with our TV. This way, the experience of watching a movie or listening to our favourite music will be much improved.

This connection is a rather small and discreet one, compared to other types of connections, so you may need a bit of time to find it. Another aspect you need to remember about the optical output is the fact that it can take up to 5.1 audio systems. If you want to enjoy larger systems, like a 7.1 system, you will have to use an HDMI connection for it.

Auxiliary input/output

The auxiliary output, also known as a headphones jack, is useful when looking to connect a pair of headphones or other audio equipment to your TV. This connection is composed of an audio cable with one analogue channel, which means that the sound quality provided by this connection is much better.

Thus, compared to a coax or Toslink connection, the aux connection will offer higher sound quality and is more recommended when looking to enjoy a better sound. It is worth mentioning that many TVs will mute their own speakers when the aux output becomes active. So, you should not be surprised if this happens in your case as well.

Digital coax input/output

This particular connection works very similarly with the Toslink connection, as it was made to support audio devices like a 5.1 audio system. However, there are differences between a digital coax output and a Toslink one. The main thing that separates the digital coax connection from the rest is that a conductor cable serves as a path for the digital audio signals, while the Toslink uses a fibre connection. So, if you want to add a piece of audio equipment to your TV or DAB Radio, you can use the digital coax output, as it is capable of supporting AV receivers, soundbars, or surround systems.

USB inputs

This type of input is rather popular and used these days, is provided by a wide range of gadgets. So, it’s no wonder that modern TVs also offer this type of input. In fact, people prefer buying TVs that can offer this feature, as it can be used for a variety of purposes. For instance, you can connect a USB memory stick to your TV with the help of this input and see photos, videos, or listen to music this way.

Besides this, the USB input can be used to connect an external storage device or hard drive to the TV, which can help you record data provided by your TV. It is also possible to utilise this input to connect your TV to the available Wi-Fi unit, which will enable you to enjoy online streaming services on the TV. Of course, new generation TV has a built-in Wi-Fi receiver, so there’s no need to use a USB input for a wireless adaptor. If you have this kind of TV, you’ll be able to use this input for other purposes.

The RF connection

When it comes to TV ports, the RF connection can be placed on the most used list. The RF connection is a radio frequency connection in the UK and Ireland, it can provide Freeview and other similar services. Because of this, it is not uncommon to find TVs that have a separate screw in the existent RF connection, which will allow a direct connection to the satellite dish you’re using. It is worth mentioning that the compatibility with Freesat is determined by the model and mark of TV you are using, as not all models allow such compatibility, in spite of the separate screw they may have installed.

Stereo sound input/output

There are TVs that feature one set of white and red phono connections and TVs that provide several sets of these kinds of connections. These connections can be used for sound only. These connections exist because they are meant to accompany the connections destined for video signals alone.

However, some TVs will feature a set of phono connections for connecting supplementary sound systems. You just need to make sure that each additional device, whether it is used for video or audio, is connected properly. If not, you’ll end up with a TV that will provide an image, but no sound.

The DVI input

Standing for Digital Video Input, the DVI input serves only for connecting digital video devices with the TV. This type of input existed before the HDMI connection came around, but you can still make good use of it if there are no HDMI connectors available on your TV.

You can use a DVI-HDMI adapter for connecting a DVI input, which saves you from having to use a special DVI cable. However, if you want to use this particular connection you should know that it provides images only. For sound, you will need to use audio cables that are separate from the DVI connection.

The VGA input/output

This is not a common kind of connection that can be seen on all TVs. This is due to the fact that the VGA connection is mostly used to connect the TV with a computer. VGA means Video Graphics Array and it can provide only video connections. Just as it happens with many types of connections that were once popular among TV users, the VGA output was exceeded by the newer and improved HDMI connection. Considering that the VGA connection is rather bulky, having two side screws meant to keep things in place, no wonder people opted for the more versatile and discreet HDMI.

The RS-232 input/output

If you have advanced TV setting knowledge, you can easily use the RS-232 connection to make these settings happen. In terms of aspect, the RS-232 output looks very much like the VGA connection, so it won’t be that hard to notice. What does it serve? This connection is utilised for more complicated connections, like integrating the TV within a system meant for home automation or for controlling the TV with the help of a computer.

Is It Possible to Utilise a TV Aerial for Capturing Signal from an FM/DAB Radio?

17/3/2020

Did it occur to you that TV aerials can be used for more than just capturing signals coming from a TV service transmitter? If you enjoy listing to the radio, you may be interested to know how to use your TV aerial to connect to the radio. It is worth mentioning that a TV aerial can help you connect with an FM and DAB radio, due to reasons that will be presented further into this article from Digitec.

The antennas used by TV and radios function on different frequencies

Before you even get to using a TV aerial to get radio signals, you first need to know about things about how things work. So, when it comes to the emitting frequencies, radios use different frequencies than TV aerials. This is why your TV signal is not interfered with by radio broadcasts. Radios broadcast in the Very High-Frequency band or VHF, while TV aerials use the Ultra High-Frequency band, or UHF. The differences in broadcasting frequencies mean that different antennas are required to get TV and radio. Also, due to the used frequency band, radio aerials are usually higher than TV aerials.

But, even so, it is possible for TV aerials to get more than the frequency it was designed to capture. How can this be possible? Well, with slight adjustments, a TV aerial will be capable of getting signals beyond the purpose it was created for. More precisely, if you place a metal plate on the roof of your house, on a higher place, your TV aerial will begin to get a variety of frequencies it wasn’t capable of finding before. In this case, if there are any radio frequencies around, you may have the chance to get them with your TV aerial alone.

The aerials used for TV and radio are set in different directions most of the times

When you install a quality TV aerial, it is set in the ideal direction for capturing signals from the main transmitter or the closest transmitter that can provide a clear and undisputed signal. The same happens when installing a radio aerial. So, in most cases, these two aerials have to point toward different directions in order to get the best signal. This is why some TV aerials won’t be able to get a good radio signal, in spite of the fact that there’s a great radio signal in the area. In other words, you cannot point one single aerial in two different directions, to get the best of both signals.

Fortunately, radio frequencies are lower than those required for TV service broadcasting, which means that they are capable of travelling on longer distances and can cover wider areas. If we are to translate this, it means that your TV aerial doesn’t have to be perfectly positioned in order to get a radio signal. Due to this, installing radio aerials is not always necessary to get FM and DAB radio signals. Instead, Omni-directional poles were used, as they are capable of getting signals from all over the place, without the need to position them in a particular direction.

Pay attention to the polarisation of the antenna

It is very important to take into account the polarisation of the transmitter you are about to use. So, when installing your antenna, it is important to consider the polarisation of the transmitter you are planning to use. In other words, if you’re trying to get signal from a transmitter with horizontal polarisation, you will have to install the antenna on its side, so that its elements will point sideways, in a horizontal manner. If the polarisation is vertical, then you will have to make sure the elements of the antenna are pointing upwards. For this, you may have to rotate the antenna to 90 degrees, until the polarisation is a vertical one.

When installing your antenna, it is very important to pay attention to this aspect. A polarisation done in an incorrect manner will be translated into a poor signal from the preferred transmitter. A tip would be to avoid installing an aerial upside down, as it will turn into a pool filled with rainwater when the weather is bad. This will lead to water logging both the aerial and the coaxial cable.

What are the polarisation used by radio signals? This piece of information is needed so you’ll know how to install your aerial to enjoy radio signals as well. Thus, it is worth noting that FM radio transmitters use horizontal polarisation and DAB radio transmitters use vertical polarisation. And when it comes to terrestrial TV transmitters, they can utilise both polarisation.

It all depends on the type of transmitter, so it is possible to get both signals by using one single polarisation of your aerial. In general, the main TV transmitters will be horizontal and relay transmitters will be vertical. Of course, there are exceptions to these rules. This is why you need to get sufficient information about the transmitter you are about to use.

Using an amplifier may be of great help

There are cases in which an amplifier, added to the TV system, may increase your chances to get a radio signal. However, if you want to try this method, you should know that not all amplifiers work. You need to opt for one that is capable that goes beyond the bands used by radio frequencies. If it can’t do this, you’ll just get a filtering of radio signals instead of actually capturing one.

A downside of this method is the risk of overloading your TV’s distribution equipment or tuner. When the equipment experiences a signal overload, the signal that will reach your TV will be of poor quality. This means that the TV will display images with visible pixels and blocks.

Radio on Freeview TV guide

This is a rather simple method and may grant you access to a number of digital radio stations. If you’re not that picky, aiming for a particular radio station, or are curious about what you can find, it is worth using your Freeview TV guide. You just need to open the Freeview TV guide and start your search at channel number 700. Browse through the available channels that start with this channel and above and see if the finds suit your tastes. If they do, you don’t need anything else to enjoy good radio music, news, shows, and anything else these stations may broadcast.

The only thing you may not enjoy that much is listening to the music provided by the radio station through the speakers of your TV. No matter how modern your TV is, we all know that these speakers don’t always offer the best audio quality. But, a decent soundbar or surround system may solve this problem for you. Also, you’ll be able to use such gadgets when watching a movie, for improved experiences.

Aerials capable of getting both signals

It is worth mentioning that there are aerials made to get both TV and radio signals. If you want to enjoy them both while buying one single aerial, look for models that can do both. Ideally, you should get an aerial that gives you the possibility to add a supplementary power supply, which will improve the strength of the signal. As we discussed earlier, a signal overload is not something to look forward, so more power added to the aerial will allow you to enjoy both without unwanted issues.

However, it is worth mentioning that these all-in-one aerial types are not the best. There are cases in which the TV signal can be compromised, not offering the level of quality you’d hoped for. But, when you can’t install two aerials and none of the previous methods work in your case, this may be your best shot.

You can always opt for an indoor aerial if you want to enjoy the radio

Indoor radio aerials look like pieces of wire, but, in reality, they are authentic aerials. In many cases, you don’t need anything else to find the radio station you enjoy the most. By simply moving its position, gradually making it point toward a different direction, you will notice an improvement in the signal you enjoy. And all of this is possible without the need to connect your indoor aerial with the outdoor, TV aerial. It is a method with lower risks because you can’t disturb the TV signal in any way.

But, if you want to enjoy DAB radio and not FM radio, an indoor aerial won’t do much for you. When looking for DAB radio frequencies this way, the signals you’ll get may be of poor quality or you may not be able to locate all the stations you would like to find. In this case, connecting to an outdoor aerial is the only way to solve the situation.

But, before making the connection with the aerial installed outside, try to see if you can get a better signal in a different room of your house. Maybe there are rooms where the indoor aerial works better, due to their positioning. Usually, the higher the floor is, the better the signal should get. So, if you have a house with multiple stories, try looking for a radio signal at a superior level. The results might be better than what you expect.

<<Previous

What is a TV/SAT attenuator?

Why are they used?

Over Signalling

Can a Satellite dish be fitted within a loft?

Why do Home Builders leave the satellite cables in the loft?

Discreet Sky dish Installations

Why do trees affect your TV signals?

Common causes for loss of signal

Satellite Dishes for Sky & Freesat

Tree Growth & Moving Foliage

Seasons

Solutions

Move It

Re-Align or Change It

Stream Your TV

Cut Down the Trees

Moving

This is Just a Guide

Televisions Don’t Provide Enough Information

Having 100% Signal Isn’t That Important

The Real Focus Should Be On Quality

There is No Real “Standard” for How Signals Are Read

Correctly Reading TV Signal Strength

Correctly Reading TV Signal Quality

Signal to Noise Ratio (S/N)

Carrier to Noise Ratio (C/N)

Modulation Error Ration (MER)

Bit Error Ratio (BER)

The Truth About Amplifiers

Is there any current in the cables feeding TV and radio aerials?

Is there any current in the coaxial cables powering satellite dishes?

Communal TV systems are different

Some electrical shocks are not dangerous, apparently

Poor or faulty electrical installation may represent a greater risk for shocks

What you can do to stay on the safe side

The quality of the dish will influence this aspect

Take a good look at what the dish is made of

Dishes made out of painted steel

Dishes made out of aluminium

Dishes made out of fibreglass

Dishes covered with mesh

Living in the proximity of the sea will diminish the dishs' lifespan

A professional did not install the dish

How’s the climate in your area?

The dish is placed in areas with significant exposure to damage

The average lifespan of a satellite dish

The Zone 1 satellite dish

The Zone 2 satellite dish

Why these two satellite dishes are used in different areas?

Is it possible to use a Zone 2 satellite dish in Zone 1?

Is it possible to use a Zone 1 satellite dish in Zone 2?

Can these dishes be used for anything else?

The Equator represents the orbit for most satellites

How are things in the southern hemisphere

How to select the best location for your satellite dish

What if the north wall is the best option?

A proper satellite dish installation will mean a long-time use of the equipment

SCART or Euroconnector

The HMDI input

The Ethernet input

The optical input/output

Auxiliary input/output

Digital coax input/output

USB inputs

The RF connection

Stereo sound input/output

The DVI input

The VGA input/output

The RS-232 input/output

The antennas used by TV and radios function on different frequencies

The aerials used for TV and radio are set in different directions most of the times

Pay attention to the polarisation of the antenna

Using an amplifier may be of great help

Radio on Freeview TV guide

Aerials capable of getting both signals

You can always opt for an indoor aerial if you want to enjoy the radio

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