[VicF]

If I use a 6 way splitter for over the air signal on cable lengths under 100' what's the likelyhood that a signal boost will be needed for HDTV and analog?

 

[jhe]

It depends on how much signal you start with. Pick up a R/S attenuator that can cut your signal by 10 db. Feed 1 set and see how it works.


Then figure each split 1-2 2-4 4-8 cuts your signal by 3-4 db. Losses are higher at the high end of the UHF band.


If you are like within 20 miles, have a good antenna, and stations at normal power with line of sight you should have no problem.


If you are 40-60 miles or closer without line of sight you will likely need some boost.

 

[NiteWrider]

jhe,


There are hills that block my LOS, so I can't get anything without my CM7777. However, there are a couple of stations I'm having problems receiving, so I'm thinking about trying a more powerful pre-amp -- Winegard, Blonder Tongue. Any suggestions?

 

[jhe]

NiteWrider,


I have tried the Channel Master Titan for UHF only (forgot the number but I think it is the UHF version of yours), and the Winegard AP4800.


The Channel Master looks like it has better specs, but the Winegard worked better for me. No idea why.


But you can't expect a big improvement when you start with an already good preamp and some people have tried both and found the Channel Master preamp better. You may have to try something else to improve the signal, like going higher, relocating, better antenna, etc.

 

[NiteWrider]

jhe,


Thanks for the info. I'm actually glad to hear that specs and real performance don't go hand-in-hand for pre-amps. I suppose that's true for most electronics.


In terms of antenna location, I'm pretty much locked in on where it is currently. The CM4228 seems to be performing well at the height of 11 feet. When it was at 7 feet, I could only receive one digital station; at 10 feet I was able to receive several; at 11 feet there was no improvement. Unfortunately, I can't go any higher.


The two stations I'm having trouble with either come in or not, depending on the weather, so the reception is borderline. It just seems that some extra gain at the pre-amp might do the trick.

 

[VicF]

Thanks for the feedback. Since I am about 30-35 mi with good line of sight and medium range directional it sounds like it will work without amp.


Moving to new house and wiring up 5 receivers, 1 is HD, DirectTV with addition of Sat C kit. Just got the Diamond 5x8 multiswitch. House has a patch panel for wiring TV, phone, network. Can't wait to hook up new toys at the end of this month.