How to Position a TV Antenna
Antennas are used to receive basic television channels as well as to receive satellite channels. The antenna is mounted into a high location and picks up the channel waves. For this reason, it's important that the TV antenna be positioned in such as way as to receive optimal reception. Although positioning a TV antenna may seem like a very simple task, there is actually a lot of trial and error involved in finding the correct location.
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Instructions
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Select a high outdoor location to position the antenna. In general, the higher the antenna is mounted the better. Some ideal locations to mount the antenna are along the roof line, on top of the chimney or on top of the roof itself. Select a location that is away from trees and power lines.
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Climb a ladder and mount the antenna as directed by the manufacturer's instructions. Then hook the antenna up to your television system.
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Attach the wire from the antenna to the connections on the back of the television set. Depending on the type of antenna, the lead-in wire will either be a coaxial lead-in or a twin-line lead-in. A link in the Resources section shows a basic diagram for connecting the wires. The manufacturer's instructions for the antenna will also explain how to connect the antenna to the television.
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Stand near the antenna and have another person stand inside the house with the television turned on.
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Slowly turn the antenna 2 to 3 cm at a time. Have the person inside the home tell you when the best reception is achieved. Handheld walkie talkies, an open window or cellphones can make this communication easier.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are using an indoor antenna, simply point it toward the nearest window and it should pick up the television signals fine.
For outdoor an antenna, you may want to consider installing a rotator device. This device is remote-controlled and allows you to rotate the antenna from inside the home.
Lower quality antennas may not be able to provide a clear picture no matter how you position them.
