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Aerials - TV Aerial/Antenna Installation - Regional dealer locator
Related links: TV aerials, Freeview receivers, DAB aerial installation, Communal aerial systems.
For many of us watching TV makes up a large part of our time and we could not live without it. Television is our window on the world, we get our news, weather, soaps, sports, movies & dramas at the touch of a button.
If your reading this then we can assume your looking to install a TV aerial/antenna?.
The aerial is the main component that determines what sort of terrestrial Freeview signal you will receive. Once installed you would expect the aerial system to give you years of reliable service.
What to consider when buying an aerial.
Can you actually get a digital signal in your area?
Best to check predicted reception before you proceed
If the check gives you a big fat NO then its worth getting a second opinion from a local installer, they will have knowledge of the area and whats required.
If the signal is marginal then it is possible to improve it with the addition of a masthead amplifier. A good way to tell if that is required will be to look at neighbours aerials. If they generally have a small cigarette packet sized box attached to the bottom of the pole then its likely they are using amplification.
If you get a full on signal with no amplification then great, however, prior to switchover most transmitters are running on lower power. This means for now you may require a higher gain aerial than will be required after switchover. Too much signal is as bad as not enough so its likely your aerial signal may require attenuation after switchover.
Aerials used for Freeview are generally wideband meaning they cover the whole UHF frequency band from channel 21-69. The reason for this is that the band is currently being used for both analogue and digital signals so they have to be spread across the whole frequency range. Prior to digital banded aerials were used that only picked up parts of the frequency range to stop interference from neighbouring transmissions. Many banded aerials will work after switchover if the digital transmissions are within its receiving frequency range.
Always insist on a good quality aerial. We know that the majority of the professional installers listed in indi will use decent kit. Popular aerial manufacturers include: Triax, ABC, Blakes, SAC and Antiference. Most will be CAI benchmark approved and tested.
How will the aerial/antenna be mounted?
Generally aerials are installed on chimneys using a lashing kit and a long enough pole. This is because the aerial requires a good line of sight to the terrestrial transmitter. Aerials are often mounted on soffits, on walls or in loft spaces. That is fine assuming the signal is adequate.
What about the cable from the aerial/antenna?
A good quality benchmarked cable should be used and should ideally be foam filled, this means that any bends or kinks in the cable will be minimised to reduce signal reflection that can cause issues with signal.
What does a TV aerial/antenna installation cost?
Costs vary as does the quality of workmanship and the kit used. Ideally use a local installer as they will have the benefit of experience installing in your area and know the good and bad signal areas. They will also be on call to come back to deal with any problems in the future. Check that they are actually local and not just using forwarding addresses and telephone numbers. Most aerial installers offer free surveys so get several quotes before making a decision and always be sure to get a detailed quotation. Dont forget to ask if they are insured and that prices quoted include VAT.