The ABC’s of Antennas, part 3

TOPICS:

LADDER

When going up on the roof to install an antenna, use a sturdy ladder and have a friend stand by and steady it if possible. Don’t rely on a cheap ladder that isn’t rated for your actual weight. This isn’t the time to lie about those cookies you have been sneaking… if you’re a 230-pounder don’t pretend you’re at 195 just to get a cheaper ladder.


MEGAHERTZ

Megahertz is a measure of frequency, but it’s often used in antennas to know where to find a particular broadcast. A simple way to think of Megahertz is as an address. Every TV signal broadcasts on a different frequency so that they don’t cause problems with each other. For example channel 22 is at 518 megahertz (MHz) while channel 23 is at 524 megahertz. A TV antenna is designed to pick up frequences from 175 to 600 megahertz.

NORTH

In order to aim an antenna properly, you need to know where north is. Antenna aiming is done using compass directions.

OHM

The Ohm, usually abbreviated with the Greek letter Omega (shown above) is a measure of resistant. It’s important to use the right cable when installing an antenna. Coaxial cable should be 75Ω.

PREAMPLIFIER

A preamplifier is used on an antenna to try to lock in distant signals, and to make sure that the signal that reaches the TV is strong enough. Preamplifiers are installed at the antenna site. A preamplifier won’t help you get signals that are too noisy or too weak to be received at all. However, it will help you with those signals that are right on the “fringe” of your reception area. If you get a signal somewhat weakly or intermittently, a preamp might help with that.

Want to know more?

If you’re interested in TV antennas, you’ll want to call the experts at Solid Signal! We have all the best brands at the best prices. Our team of antenna techs is ready to take your calls at 888-233-7563 during East Coast business hours. If it’s after hours, no problem! Fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you quickly!

About the Author

Stuart Sweet
Stuart Sweet is the editor-in-chief of The Solid Signal Blog and a "master plumber" at Signal Group, LLC. He is the author of over 10,000 articles and longform tutorials including many posted here. Reach him by clicking on "Contact the Editor" at the bottom of this page.