Antenna amplifier for TV: principle of operation, choice, making it yourself

Despite the widespread use of the Internet, televisions have not left our daily lives. On the contrary, global manufacturers are improving their models to equip them with various additional functions. Modern models already have a built-in receiver that can work with an indoor antenna to display digital television. An integral part of any TV is the antenna. To show your LCD and old tube TV, you need to choose the right antenna. If you like to spend time in the country, then you should take into account that the further you are from the source of the television signal, the stronger the amplifier you need to purchase. An amplifier is needed to improve the television signal. Each TV model has its own set-top boxes that pick up and transmit the signal. The age of information technology has not yet come up with a replacement for the classic antenna; many manufacturers have developed various kinds of attachments that are suitable for both urban and suburban areas. They can be installed in an apartment, a country house or a private sector within the city. About how you can improve, namely strengthen the signal of the TV antenna, as well as what types of set-top boxes for television signals exist, and which one is better to buy for a summer house, and which one for an apartment, you will learn by reading the article from beginning to the very end.

There are several types of amplifiers

Equipment Needs

The main task: to minimize cable losses. If the antenna itself does not have enough strength to catch the moving flow, then the microcircuit will not help. The need for a receiver arises if there is a sufficiently large distance between the device and the TV. The abilities will be fully revealed if there is a distance of 30 meters or more. Whatever the cable, the signal weakens as it passes through. You can also purchase a device when reception is from a weak repeater.

Options when there is no need to purchase a product:

1. The incoming signal will have a power several times greater than the required value.
2. In addition to television channels, the receiver picks up extraneous noise.
3. Critical level of reception.

Before proceeding with installation, you must consider the following nuances:

1. Availability of power supply. The product is sold simultaneously with the power supply. But there are also exceptions. There is no need if a voltage of 5 V is required. Then you can borrow electricity directly from the tuner. The current flow will be of high quality, there will be no ripple. However, many models require 12 V.
2. There is a possibility of burnout when struck by lightning. To reduce the possibility of a negative outcome, lightning protection or grounding is done.
3. Time passes and the power supply begins to deteriorate. In this case, the quality of the received signal decreases.
4. It becomes possible to enhance the reception of a third-party signal, thereby reducing the quality of the TV channel.

Signal amplification without additional devices

It is possible to amplify TV antenna signals even when using a short piece of coaxial cable. A receiver will still be required if the television receiver is of an old generation.

Often, most houses have community antennas installed that do not function well. For such a case, there is one life hack.

Reasons for signal deterioration

To improve the quality of reception, you should ensure that metal structures are located as far away as possible. The imaginary line to the repeater must not cross any obstacles. If the house is covered with an iron roof, then this will be a source of trouble. When laying the cable, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

• do not shorten the cable to the minimum length;
• do not use a cable that has been “been seen” (over 5 years);
• the quality of products must be at the highest level (low quality with virtually no braid);
• complete absence of creases;
• It is strictly prohibited to place excess wire in the bay.

Is it possible to receive a digital signal without an amplifier?

The question often arises and interests many people.

Important! With the proper approach, it is possible to receive a TV signal with normal quality, not only without an amplifying device. At a distance of up to fifteen kilometers from the repeater, it is possible to view the TV receiver even if you do not use an antenna. The antenna can be replaced with a short piece of wire. Coaxial cable is best for this.

How this can be achieved will be revealed step by step in the article below.

How to choose the right one

According to buyers, before visiting a specialized retail outlet in order to purchase the desired amplifier, it is worth deciding what models are produced and the scope of their use. Regardless of which popular company released the product, it comes in two types:

In addition to the above gradation, amplifiers are divided into:

1. Broadband.
2. Multi-band. Able to provide close and far reception. The best-selling products are TERRA and ALCAD. They are able to concentrate several signals from various receiving devices and combine them into one.
3. Range. The list includes SWAs and LSAs. Often found in array-type antennas.

All devices are available with separate regulation of different ranges or with an unregulated power supply, which can be either internal or external. Each of them has both pros and cons.

Which antenna is better for a summer residence?

Every test of antennas for a dacha shows that the best antenna for a dacha, especially one located 100-120 km from the city, is satellite. It is a leader in the antenna rating because it can provide good reception and a large number of channels. But sometimes, due to the reluctance to put an expensive dish in the garden or the presence of only an old TV that does not handle digital TV well, a very ordinary TV antenna is installed in the dacha. A good old decimeter antenna for a dacha for receiving terrestrial television costs very little, although it does not “catch” many channels.

Hipnose:

– Help me decide which TV antenna to choose for a dacha located 100-120 km from Moscow. I wish she would take channels 5-6. Now it only shows 1 channel, and even that is bad. I want to do without satellite TV. Is there such a possibility?

Opinion of our user with the nickname Alexander 2:

– If the TV tower is about 100-120 km, and in general, more than 50-60 km, then you can forget about on-air reception (it still greatly depends on the terrain). Such a TV antenna will not reach a hundred kilometers from Moscow; you will be able to receive a signal from one of the regional repeaters located in the nearest regional centers.

Before installation, the TV antenna for the dacha is completely disassembled to protect the structural elements from adverse weather conditions, all contacts, threads, nuts and screws are coated with Movil or lithol - in this case, the TV will last not a year, but much longer, you can safely install the mast on the street.

Usually built-in amplifiers work until the first good thunderstorm. And grounding or a lightning rod does not help here. Because Grounding protects the house.

Alexander 2:

– I don’t ground unless the customer categorically insists on it. If the grounded antenna is at a dominant height, then lightning will definitely strike it, and if it is not grounded, then lightning will strike a tall tree in the garden nearby.

Features of choice

Everyone's selection criteria are different. But the purpose of the acquisition is one - to make the received signal high-quality. If you ignore this, then interference cannot be avoided. Advice on choosing from experts boils down to the following: if you decide to purchase an inexpensive home amplifier, then you can’t expect more from it than passive participation. This is facilitated by the presence of metal structural elements.

But there are options that this is quite enough if the TV tower is in close proximity. For residents of rural areas or for owners of country cottages, as well as for owners of apartments on the first floors of a high-rise building, you will need a device with a high gain.

What types of devices are there? Currently, specialized stores will offer a variety of products to choose from, including outdoor and indoor antennas with a built-in compact amplifier. Which one is better to buy depends on many factors. The best one will cost a lot of money, and there may be no need for it. The best manufacturers annually release a lot of popular models. What should you pay attention to to avoid making mistakes when choosing? Check out the following expert recommendations:

1. It is worth keeping in mind that no amplifier will work without being connected to electricity. To get it, you need to have a 12, 9 or 5 V network adapter. Today, new products are being released that can use an antenna cable as a power supply. Then you should make sure that your own TV can transmit. Popular models also differ in body. Some models are designed exclusively for mounting to an outdoor antenna. Their body is waterproof. Otherwise, their lifespan is until the first rain. If you need to purchase an indoor model, you do not need to pay attention to this characteristic. Experts recommend installing the amplifier close to the TV. If you ignore this advice, the device will not only amplify the signal, but also attract noise.
2. The main indicator of the models included in the rating of quality products is the gain factor. You need to understand that a high value is not always optimal. First you need to decide on the nearest television center. A digital coverage map will help you with this question. When the tower is located thousands of kilometers from the user’s location, it is worth thinking about the maximum increase rate. In other cases, there is no need for such acquisitions. This will only increase the noise. Modern devices already have a built-in regulator. This suggests that the owner is able to adjust the indicator based on the location of the tower. Even if you purchase a product with the option disabled, you won’t be able to get rid of it completely. Therefore, even if you purchase a “sophisticated” design, it is impossible to get rid of noise if the tower is close enough.
3. The devices have a wide range of amplified frequencies. If you review the purchased models, preference is given to broadband options. They are also called universal, as they are able to amplify all possible frequencies. Due to the transition to digital TV, it is almost impossible to purchase this kind of product.
4. When purchasing the most expensive TV amplifier, you can get additional functionality in the form of a signal divider. The case is equipped with several output connectors. This makes it possible to connect several TVs to the device at the same time. You can, of course, purchase separate dividers, which are abundant in any specialized store. But it is worth keeping in mind that these dividers contribute to signal deterioration. As for the amplifier, it has no such drawback, no matter how many TVs are connected to it.

Application of antenna amplifiers

Antenna amplifiers are used in cases where the television tower or alternative source of the television signal is located far away. It is more advisable to use them at dachas, since television broadcasting usually becomes difficult in the countryside, and you don’t want to keep up with the latest news or not miss an episode of your favorite series. It is the presence or absence of an amplifier that antennas are divided into passive and active. You read about this in more detail above. Today there is a huge selection on store shelves and the difficult task is which amplifier to choose. When choosing, you should pay attention to several nuances that are mandatory. Study the technical specifications, namely what the signal-to-noise ratio is when operating in decibels. The required magnitude and voltage for stable operation. Like all additional functional items, amplifiers have their positive and negative aspects. Let's start with the positives: it accepts weak radio waves, the noise figure is minimally reduced on an outdoor device, and improves any radio frequency range. And the most important advantage is that the amplifier can be made at home with your own hands. The negative points include: by not calculating the power, the amplifier can damage the structure; They are susceptible to thunderstorms and humidity, due to which rapid oxidation of the contacts occurs.

The best antenna amplifiers at a significant price

Terra HS 004

An expensive model, as it is able to amplify a wide variety of frequencies. The case is cast, quite reliable. It is wear-resistant and durable. Equipped with surge protection. It is very popular among walkie-talkie users. Works with UHF and VHF bands. Frequency availability range – 47 – 862 MHz. Adjustment of the indicator - from 34 to 44 dB.

It is powered from the mains using an ordinary plug inserted into a socket. The miniature size of the power supply allows it to be placed inside the case. The noise level is minimal, up to 6 dB. Able to function at any temperature, even at -20 degrees. Moisture protection is not provided. The case has a large number of holes to avoid overheating. Therefore, it is not possible to put the device outside.

The manufacturer has equipped the product with ears. The result is a product that can be mounted on a wall. This happens through bolts or screws. An indispensable thing for special services and other similar organizations. Can also be used for digital TV, since the ranges are the same.

The average price is 4320 rubles.

Terra HS 004

Advantages:

• the ability to attach to a wall or other vertical surface;
• the presence of division into ranges;
• protection;
• power supply is provided via RF input;
• a version is available that has an LTE signal suppression filter;
• quality of the cast body;
• there is a test connector at the output;
• DC overload indicator services;
• high gain;
• a significant number of connection points.

Flaws:

• overcharge.

Alcad AL – 400

The product belongs to the category of expensive ones. The housing is equipped with openings for ventilation. Not suitable for the street, especially in high humidity. The presence of rain and snow will lead to the formation of corrosion, after which subsequent operation will become futile. The manufacturer has provided four outputs in the model, which makes it possible to simultaneously connect four TVs. In this case, the signal divider is not used. There are no lugs for wall mounting, which is a clear disadvantage.

The weight of the structure is 580 grams. Differs in wear resistance and performance. We practically don't kill. The exception is a direct hit by an electric charge from lightning. It operates with two bands at a frequency of 40 – 318 MHz and 470 – 862 MHz. There is no splitting for quality increase. This device is not intended to operate with radio stations. The main purpose is to transform the TV signal. There is more than enough functionality for these purposes.

Gain indicator – 20 – 28 dB. The gain can be adjusted. The accessory is used regardless of the distance at which the tower is installed. The noise is at 4.2 dB. Return loss indicator is 10 dB. The product does not have cable frequencies, which makes it impossible to distribute the operator's signal to different TVs. The performance, as well as the duration of use, is excellent.

You can purchase the device at a price of 2,550 rubles per unit.

Alcad AL – 400

Advantages:

• long service life;
• gain is adjustable;
• many exits;
• the gain is significant;
• designed for digital TV antenna;
• supports a variety of frequencies;
• reduced noise level;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• practicality.

Flaws:

• there is no overload indicator;
• not attached to a vertical surface;
• The cost is not affordable for everyone.

Wisi VM 8351

It stands out among its analogues with its interesting rounded body. Internal structural elements are located inside, behind white plastic. A small number of connectors are visible on the outside. In addition to the white plastic box, the kit includes a special metal product, which is equipped with a gain control and several sockets. Based on numerous reviews, the white component represents the power supply and separators, while the amplifier is a metal element.

There is a tiny indicator on the product that indicates that electricity is being supplied. If the product has become unusable, it will immediately become visible. The reliability of the design is excellent, so there is no need to worry. If the question arises which company is better to buy, then opt for this German model. The company guarantees the best price-quality ratio and conducts constant checks at all stages of product release so as not to let its fans down.

The device operates in the UHF range at a frequency of 470 – 790 MHz. It is on it that domestic digital television is broadcast. Gain adjustment varies from 15 to 35 dB. The noise figure does not reach 3.5 dB.

How much do products from a famous brand cost? Specialized retail outlets ask 2,750 rubles for it.

Wisi VM 8351

Advantages:

• possibility of gain adjustment;
• low noise;
• assembly reliability;
• quality;
• productivity;
• wear resistance;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• The kit includes several accessories;
• gain control too small;
• Difficult to use by older people;
• small number of connectors;
• significant price.

Lans LX-50

The model has small overall dimensions. It cannot be used as a divider, since there is one inlet and outlet on the body. High-quality metal is used in the manufacture of the case. But it is not recommended to place it outside the premises. Raindrops can penetrate inside and negatively affect the performance of the structure.

Equipped with gain control. Can be used regardless of the remoteness of the telecentre. It is considered a universal accessory. The amplifier is a broadband type. Can support multiple bands simultaneously. Frequency processing occurs within the range of 47 – 862 MHz. With power supply via cable from a regular power supply of 220 V. If you decide to order equipment online in an online store, then make sure that the set includes a power supply.

The purchase price is 1600 rubles.

Lans LX-50

Advantages:

• practicality;
• functionality;
• durability;
• quality;
• assembly reliability;
• increased gain rate;
• support for a large number of frequencies;
• possibility of adjusting the gain;
• compactness.

Flaws:

• There are not as many connectors as we would like;
• only one F – exit;
• unspecified noise level.

Antennas of apartment buildings

If the service company works normally, then residents of apartment buildings do not have to think about amplifying devices for TV signals. Such devices, with normal maintenance, function well and without complaints. When the signal from the common antenna is rather weak, or there is none at all, then there is no need to rush into purchasing or manufacturing such devices. To begin with, it is better to call the service organization and tell about such malfunctions.

After the call, specialists arrive, inspect the antenna and decide what to do with it - repair or replace.

Important! Household TV signal amplification devices will always be many times more powerful than any individual, and even more so home-made option.

The best budget antenna amplifiers

Remo BAS – 8102 – 01

In terms of compactness, it has no equal. The price tag looks nice. The main disadvantage is that it is almost impossible to purchase in specialized retail outlets. The order is carried out mainly through an online store selling antennas and all kinds of accessories. Only large domestic retail outlets such as M.Video and DNS please customers.

It is extremely popular among specialists in this field. But there is no need to talk about his impeccability.

In its appearance and size it resembles a USB flash drive, inside of which there is a tiny board. Despite its size, it is able to amplify the signal at a level of 16 dB. This is a stated figure, although in reality it is not true. It will be a completely useless device if the tower is located a hundred kilometers from the house. There is no gain control at all.

For the product to function, you must have a power supply with a USB connector. This device is included in the kit and there is no need to purchase it additionally. If there is a USB socket on the TV, it makes it possible to power the device from it.

The amplifier is broadband, operating at a frequency of 48.5 - 862 MHz. Supports digital TV channels. The noise level is less than 3 dB, which is considered an excellent characteristic. The output and input impedance corresponds to a value of 75 Ohms. You will not be able to connect a second TV to the device without additionally purchasing a divider. The build quality is a big question.

According to users, the main disadvantage is that some models are produced with the central wire of the coaxial output not soldered to the board. If such a situation arises, there are two options: either return the low-quality product to the seller, or disassemble the product and solder a small wire on your own. But even after performing such manipulations, the product may stop working if it is constantly removed from the USB port.

The purchase price is 550 rubles.

Remo BAS – 8102 – 01

Advantages:

• simplicity in use;
• presence of a power supply in the set;
• acceptable price;
• power supply is provided directly from the TV;
• low noise level;
• able to support a significant number of frequencies.

Flaws:

• in most cases the assembly is of poor quality;
• the plastic used is of poor quality;
• the signal gain is insufficient;
• lack of signal division capability;
• lack of signal gain adjustment.

Antex AX – S 20 U

A miniature amplifier with a different design. Wires with a specific resistance are not provided. It looks like a small box with input and output connectors on the sides. There are no difficulties with use; even amateurs have no questions. The main drawback of the product is the lack of a cable to connect the amplifier to the TV. You will have to purchase it yourself.

Despite its minimal dimensions, it is able to produce a gain of 20 dB. He copes with the assigned tasks with a bang. The noise figure is 3 dB, which is good news. An ideal purchase for those people whose apartments are located at a significant distance from the tower. It works with one TV, if there is a need to connect several more, it is worth purchasing dividers, which will negatively affect the operation of the device and can reduce its functionality to nothing.

Electricity is supplied through the use of an antenna input. In order for the product to start functioning, you need to purchase an AX-TVI USB power injector from a specialized retail outlet. This question will arise if the family does not have the latest generation TV with the ability to supply five-volt electricity to its own antenna input. Most digital set-top boxes have this functionality and are able to receive a signal in the DVB – T2 format.

The model has the ability to amplify the signal in the frequency range from 470 to 862 MHz. This suggests that you can watch digital TV in stable mode. But the device is not designed for a larger device.

The product is sold at a price of 500 rubles.

Antex AX – S 20 U

Advantages:

• build quality;
• compactness;
• presence of high gain;
• value for money;
• designed to amplify the frequency of digital TV;
• the manufacturer will equip the device with protection against voltage surges in the electrical network;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• there is no gain adjustment;
• There are clearly not enough connectors;
• power supply is provided exclusively via the antenna cable (in a strictly established volume of 5 volts).

Remo USSH – 5 V

It is considered the most budget option. Its parameters resemble a regular adapter. Consists of two structural elements:

1. An amplifier equipped with an input for a cable that extends from the antenna. The body is made of black plastic. There is a microchip inside.
2. Elementary plastic F – white plug. Inserts into a special socket on the TV.

The elements are connected to each other with a short-length wire (up to 10 cm). It is easy to use. It is enough to connect the device to the TV, and then attach the antenna. The second action may cause some difficulties. It all comes down to different sizes of connectors. If you accidentally snag the wire, the plug will quickly jump out of the socket. This situation arises if you come across a low-quality model.

The device parameters are insignificant, but the signal amplification occurs at the proper level. Many users note an increase of 10 - 15 percent. There are no cases where the device did not produce any effect. There is an exception to the rule. It concerns the situation in which the existing antenna is already equipped with an amplifier. In this situation, the products will not function.

Broadband model. Supports frequencies in the range from 48.5 to 862 MHz. Designed for watching digital television. The manufacturer does not provide a separate connector for electricity, which is a significant drawback. Therefore, the device will only function with a TV or set-top box that is able to provide power to its own antenna connector. But the product does not need a network adapter.

You can purchase products at prices ranging from 250 to 370 rubles, depending on your region of residence.

Remo USSH – 5 V

Advantages:

• compact parameters;
• a budget option;
• stability of maintaining digital TV;
• amplification quality;
• practicality;
• simplicity in use;
• marriage practically never occurs.

Flaws:

• antenna output in one copy;
• Gain control is not provided by the manufacturer;
• The antenna cable must provide strictly 5 V power.

Methods for ensuring reliable TV signal reception

In order not to regularly observe the absence or deterioration of reception, you can use the following methods of stabilizing the TV signal:

• Using an amplifier. This is a device that does not allow the signal to drop or fall below a certain limit unless the reception is completely turned off. At the same time, the user has the opportunity to always see a clear image on the screen without any interference or noise. The features of amplifiers will be discussed in more detail in the following sections of the article.

• Replacing the old antenna with a new one. This option is relevant for those people who still use the capabilities of an analog signal. Perhaps the old antenna is outdated or partially broken and is no longer capable of producing a high-quality TV signal.

Appearance of the television antenna:

• Isolating the TV from places. where there is extraneous noise caused by the use of devices that operate at a different frequency, thereby drowning out the TV signal.
• TV repair or replacement. Another common method for improving the TV signal. Sometimes the TV itself is to blame for problems with poor reception, and it must be sent to a service center for diagnostics.

One of the most effective methods of improving a television signal is the use of a special amplifier. These devices are inexpensive, but they do their job perfectly.