JJJatAVS
11-02-08, 06:59 PM
My current setup is:
Cable signal in -> Motorola Cable Booster -> 4 way splitter: 1 to HDTV, 1 to old tube TV, 2 to HDHomerun.
I want to add another old tube TV which currently is OTA.
How can I do this: Split 1 signal after the 4 way splitter with a 2 way splitter? or a 5-way splitter (have not found one) or 6 way splitter:n What is the best choice?
mjones73
11-02-08, 08:00 PM
Splitting one of the feeds off the 4 way would probably work unless your signal is marginal to begin with.
JJJatAVS
11-02-08, 08:20 PM
if it's marginal, could I add another booster or not?
JHBrandt
11-02-08, 08:47 PM
if it's marginal, could I add another booster or not?
Most likely your signal's strong enough as things are. If not, try using a 6-way splitter (screw a 75-ohm terminator into the unused output) instead of a 4-way and 2-way. That should save about 1.5 dB of signal strength.
You could use a second booster, although that'll cost more unless you already have one lying around. To reduce the risk of overload, try putting it between the 4-way and 2-way splitters.
if it's marginal, could I add another booster or not?
No. Drop amps (includes that Motorola) have an input threshold of 10-15dBmV (depends on how many channels there are). With 10dBmV gong into it, 15dB gain has it's output at 25dBmV. Even after a 4-way splitter, there would be 18dBmV going into a second one. Too much.
With input levels of 10dBmV, a drop amp can easily feed 24 outlets.