How to Improve an FM Antenna
Frequency modulation (FM radio) is still the band most commonly used for higher-quality radio reception. FM radio, however, can suffer from signal bounce, caused by tall buildings, mountains or other obstructions. Boosters in these applications are notoriously ineffective, because they can only boost a signal if it receives it to begin with. Proper placement of the FM antenna can make a simple antenna work more effectively. In addition, adding a booster in outlying areas can help, but only if the surrounding area is relatively flat and the signal remains relatively unobstructed.
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Instructions
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Extend any elements on the antenna to their fullest length.
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Raise the antenna as high as possible in the structure. If necessary, screw a coaxial F connector between the existing coaxial cable, and a new piece to extend the length of the wire. Screw the end of the new coaxial extension to the tuner.
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Screw the existing antenna's coaxial cable into an FM booster. Plug the booster into an AC outlet. Adjust the small knob back and forth on the booster to attenuate the signal to prevent overloading the tuner. Increase the boost function until the signal is lost at the tuner. Rotate it slowly back until the signal returns. This indicates maximum boost without overload.
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Rotate the antenna in both directions in small increments, typically less than five degrees. Start at the center point, and move left first. Check for satisfactory signal reception at the tuner after each adjustment. If unsatisfactory, move slowly right, checking after each adjustment.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit antenna image by Madrider from Fotolia.com
