antennas

Virtual vs. Real Channels

With the change to DTV we ended up with “Virtual” Channels what are these? The “real” channels are the channels the TV stations are using to transmit on. Back before HDTV, the channel number told us…

Read More

Simple Dipole and Bow Tie Antennas

Let’s go over a few things about dipole antennas that I have picked up while being an amateur radio operator. I will start with what is known and go from there. I will then apply…



The Porcupine Antenna

This antenna was an extension of an idea I had back in 2002, and had an article published about the precursor antenna in Popular Communications, in January 2003: “Phil’s Easy Way To Improve Your UHF TV Reception.”…


WRONG TOOL/RIGHT TOOL: Assemble an RG6 Cable

In Wrong Tool/Right Tool we’ll show you the tools you should be using when working on antenna or satellite installations. WRONG TOOL: Buck Knife. Even in an emergency, don’t be tempted to strip a cable using a…


Can you pause TV from an antenna?

It’s easy to do! A lot of people are afraid that if they cut the cord, they’ll lose the ability to pause live TV. After all, they remember being kids and not being able to pause…








Commissioner Ajit Pai to (probably) head FCC

On Friday, one of the lesser-noticed transitions in government took place as Tom Wheeler stepped down from his position as chair of the FCC. Mr. Wheeler would have been within his rights to continue for some…


DISH and Gray sign a contract, 12 stations still go dark

Crisis “mostly” averted. With seconds to spare. DISH signed a long-term contract with Gray Television that preserved 100 local channels throughout the country. Of course the details are confidential, but the good news is DISH customers…