Best way to extend an aerial?

adandem

Hi,

We need to extend an aerial point in our house, what is the best way to do this?

Are some fittings better than others? Also, the current wire is quite stiff and I'm worried that it will get damaged if we bend it too much.

I realise that a joint can affect the signal, will it affect just the TV which this particular aerial supplies or all the TV's linked to the aerial.

Thanks in advance.;)

latecomer

It could do either or both. I would suggest replacing the cable with a longer one.

coolagarry

It depends so much on signal strength etc. The only way really is to 'suck it and see'. Try a connection first from your local tv repair shop. If that causes problems - replace the original aerial cable with a longer one (if it's an old one it could probably do with replacing anyway as they do deteriorate over time - particularly if outside).

adandem

The aerial has only recently been professionally installed. We have four points coming from the aerial. I don't think OH would be able to replace the whole cable ( not very ladder friendly or technical:o ) as it's wired to masthead(?) booster.

I suppose it might be worth getting the installers back but was trying to save money.

Thanks for the replies;)

bengraves38

adandem wrote: »

The aerial has only recently been professionally installed. We have four points coming from the aerial. I don't think OH would be able to replace the whole cable ( not very ladder friendly or technical:o ) as it's wired to masthead(?) booster.

I suppose it might be worth getting the installers back but was trying to save money.

Thanks for the replies;)

If you.ve just had it done try extending it yourself. The worst that could happen is you get a bad picture and have to call in "the man". I think its probably a good idea to leave the ladders in the garage if you are not too confident on them!!!!

The best way to connect the cables together is with what is called an F Plug here is on i have found online for u

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/17061/Electrical-Supplies/TV-Range/Leads-Connectors/Philex-Coaxial-F-Plug-Pack-of-10

put one of these onto the existing cable and one onto the new cable. Then you need to join them together using one of these.

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/95730/Electrical-Supplies/TV-Range/Leads-Connectors/Labgear-F-Plug-to-F-Plugs-Pack-of-10

Both above items come in packs of 10 so you can make 5 joints if you wish LOL.
As you can see they are quite cheap.
Also for extra cable if you need it you should not be looking at paying anymore than £15 for 100m

This may also be a good kit for you?

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/35212/Electrical-Supplies/Cable/Coaxial-Cable/Labgear-Coaxial-Kit-White-Coaxial-Cable

Hope this helps.

sparky883

My sister has a HD TV and all mod cons,Freeview Recordable etc all running perfectly with an Aerial cable that i twisted together on the outside of her house and taped up,Years ago.
If you live in a City or have a good signal just join it.