How to Connect a Digital Converter Box to a TV Without AV Jacks

Coaxial cable with metal lock nuts on the ends to connect between the TV and converter box.

A digital converter box transforms digital TV broadcasting signals into analog signals for playback on an old TV. Connecting the converter box is a bit more complicated if you own a really old TV, such as a model that has neither AV jacks nor even a threaded RF coaxial jack. The solution to this problem is a device known as a bipole antenna, also called a Balun antenna. The device is equipped with two Y-connectors on one end for hooking up to the screw posts on old TVs. A standard coaxial jack is on the other end.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Dipole antenna
• Coaxial cable

Instructions

1. Unplug the TV and the converter box from the electrical outlets.

2. Loosen the two screws labeled "UHF" on the back panel of the TV using a screwdriver. Do not remove the screws from the cabinet.

3. Slip each of the two Y-connectors on the dipole antenna under the head of each screw on the back of the TV.

4. Tighten the screws to secure the dipole antenna.

5. Connect one end of a coaxial cable to the coaxial jack on the other side of the dipole antenna, tightening the metal nut on the end of the cable around the jack on the antenna.

6. Hook up the other end of the cable to the Out to TV or RF OUT jack on the rear of the digital converter box.

References

• Top Bits Tech FAQ: Coaxial Cables
• Electronics Tutorials: Antenna Basics

Resources

• Summit Source: Balun to Coaxial Connector