How to Use a TV Signal Booster

Try to get the booster as close to the antenna as you can without placing it outside.

Amplifiers, or boosters, can be used to increase a television's signal. Common signal amplifiers can be used on cable, satellite or High Definition Television--often called HDTV--signals. The devices can provide gain that can compensate for signal loss created by in-line devices, or very long cable runs. Using a TV signal booster involves selecting a location for it, routing the cables, attaching the antenna and attaching the television equipment.

Things You'll Need

• 75 ohm Coaxial cable
• F-type connectors

Instructions

1. Select a location. Amplifiers should go as close as possible to the input signal, rather than the receiving device like television. So, try to get the booster as close to the antenna as you can without placing it outside. Keep it away from other equipment too, because other gear can cause interference. The power injector box can go anywhere there's a power supply, but the power injector must be positioned between the amplifier and television.

2. Route the coaxial cable between the antenna and the amplifier. Avoid sharp turns, and areas where the cable might become damaged by crushing or crimping. Connect the amplifier to the antenna.

3. Adjust the DC Bypass switch on the signal booster you're adding to the appropriate setting. Use "On" for an antenna that already has an amplifier with an existing power supply, or "Off" if there isn't already a power supply.

4. Connect the receiving equipment to the power injector using coaxial cable with the F-type connectors. Connect the power injector to the household power. Connect the power injector to the amplifier.

References

• Radio Shack: In-line Signal Amplifier Manual