How to Fix a Frozen TV Rotor

Dead batteries can cause TV rotors to freeze.

A TV rotor is an electronic television accessory that turns your TV from one angle to another through the communication with a remote controller and an antenna. The remote is operated by the viewer and the antenna is on the rotor. These two devices speak to one another and allow the viewer to turn the television to a desired viewing angle. When a TV rotor is frozen and won't move, it is important to examine all possible causes and solutions so that your television isn't stuck.

Things You'll Need

• Batteries
• Wrench
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Change the batteries in the remote controller. This is the simplest way to investigate the problem of the frozen TV rotor. If you change the batteries, use the remote and the rotor starts to work again, then the problem wasn't with the rotor, but with the batteries in the remote. Make sure to use the same type/size of battery that is in the remote controller presently.

2. Examine the rotor unit. Make sure all of the compartments, such as the antenna or the mast, are attached properly and tightly. Inspect the unit for signs of loose parts. Use a wrench to tighten any loose bolts or a screwdriver if it appears that some of the screws are coming undone.

3. Untangle any cords or wires that could be stuck in the rotor or knotted underneath or around the television. If a cord or wire is caught somewhere, it could cause the rotor to freeze and be unable to turn. Move wires and cords out of the rotor's way.

4. Pull back the cover of the mast to check the terminal connections. Review your product manual to make sure that all of the wires are connected to the proper terminals. Change the connections if you find that one of the wires is not fed into the correct terminal.

5. Feel the rotor with the back of your hand. Check the temperature. If the rotor is burning your hand, then the reason it is frozen could be that the device overheated and is damaged.

Tips & Warnings

• Unplug the TV rotor from the power source as you take metal tools to it. Plug the rotor back into the power source to test it after your work is finished.

• Call a technician to find out specific troubleshooting guidelines that pertain to the TV rotor brand that you have.

References

• Radio Shack: Programmable Antenna Rotator Controller with Infra-Red Remote Control