How to Install TV Antenna Wire

Some cable or satellite companies do not offer local or network channels (such as ABC, NBC, CBS and syndication stations such as UPN or CW). Therefore, a separate antenna is required if you wish to view those channels. TV antenna wire carries the signal from the television to the antenna. Correct installation of the right amount of TV antenna wire can provide you with better reception. For the purpose of this article, the antenna is already installed, and it is just a matter of installing and hooking up the antenna wire.

Things You'll Need

• TV antenna wire
• Connectors (if not supplied with the wire)
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Disconnect the power source to the TV.

2. Locate the spot on the antenna where the wire will be connected. (See Tips for more information.)

3. Attach the connector wires either to the antenna itself, or to the connector (depending on which type you have—see Tips for more information). Make sure the screws are tight enough to allow for a true connection, but not so tight that wires or other components are crimped, pinched or otherwise compromised.

4. Run the antenna wire from where it has been connected to the antenna to the TV.

5. Locate the receptacle on the back of the TV where the antenna wire would be attached.

6. Repeat Step 3 to attach the antenna wire to the TV.

7. Restore power, turn the TV on, and make any adjustments to the antenna that may be necessary in order to receive the strongest signal.

8. Enjoy your TV!

Tips & Warnings

• The antenna may simply have 2 exposed screws that will allow you to attach the connector directly to them, or it may have a place where the connector itself fits after the wires have been installed on the connector. You will just have to look and determine which type you have.

• Unplug the TV from the wall, and disconnect the antenna power source BEFORE installing the wire. Severe electrical shock can result in serious injury or death.

• Make sure your antenna is securely attached to the house or a base of some type, especially if there will be quite a bit of space between the antenna, the place where the wire connects to the antenna and the TV itself. Also, be sure that the wire has some slack in it, so that there is no tension or stress to the antenna itself.

• Make sure the wire leading from the antenna to the TV is secured or placed where it will not be a hazard. If necessary, support it in some manner or fasten it to where it will be out of the way but will still function.

• If the wire should shift, become disconnected, or even lose its slackness, it can cause the antenna to be dislodged, causing damage to the antenna, the house or surrounding structures and the TV. This could pose an electrical shock danger.