TV signal amplifier: how it works and how to choose a digital TV signal amplifier

Reviews of the best models

There are separate amplifiers on the market, as well as active antennas with built-in amplifiers. Consider the best "room" contenders:

REMO BAS Horizon

This is an active antenna that can be mounted directly on the TV (there is a special mount) and will fit easily into any interior. This model has a fairly durable case, built-in USB and a relatively small weight of 250 grams. It comes with a 5 volt power supply.The cost of the unit will definitely please you - it varies from 700 to 800 rubles.

mini digital

The model is equipped with a suction cup. You can even mount it on the window, so there will definitely not be any problems with the location. Despite the fact that its body is made of metal and plastic, it weighs only 300 g, and the look itself is quite stylish, so it will fit into any room design.

It receives a signal in analog and digital standard, and has a movable receiving frame, which is also important for a high-quality image. The price category is similar to the opponent - 800-900 rubles

"Polish" amplifiers

Units that are built into the antenna itself, and are sold in a stand-alone form. Such amplifiers are called "Polish" and are included in the "SWA" and "LSA" range. The unit itself is fixed on the antenna grill with a specialized threaded connection, and the device itself operates at a voltage of 9 volts and is activated in the frequency range from 50 to 790 megahertz.

These models are broadband. Their choice is based on the distance of the receiver from the TV tower.

The following table will help you select an amplifier board with the correct characteristics:

Locus

This is an active antenna, which is used if you need to “improve” (more precisely, strengthen) a passive antenna or simply replace the amplifier. These models are good for their affordable price and the ability to easily install without conducting complex radio engineering work.

To connect the cable, a specialized clamp is used, which “contacts” well with both the cable sheath and the central core. The price of this unit varies from 690 to 1500 rubles.

Terra

Terra units have two models - these are HS and MA (range and multi-range). The first option in the devices has several outputs and a gain option in different ranges, and the second one allows you to qualitatively amplify the signal coming from several antennas at once. They also have the ability to manually adjust the signal reception and a gain of 20-30 dB.

Choosing an amplifier Terra will help to make a table of characteristics:

The brand has proven itself with stability and long service life. The downside of these amplification representatives is the price (reaches a threshold of 5,000 rubles) and the required voltage (it can be overestimated to 12 volts).

ALKAD

The company has established itself positively in the amplifier market. Produces models of broadband and range type. In this case, the gain varies from 15 to 35 dB, the voltage can be adjusted. This is especially convenient if your antenna is already equipped with its own amplifier from 12 to 24 V.

The following video offers an overview of the ALCAD brand unit for the DVB -T2 antenna:

Antenna amplifiers help not only improve picture quality, but also reduce interference, prevent ripples and “snow”, which is simply necessary for watching TV. It is noteworthy that you can purchase such devices for any need - from an old broadcasting receiver to a high-quality image on cable television.

How to connect?

Depending on the operating conditions and requirements for the design of the room, there are several options for mounting the splitter.

If the device will be located in a conspicuous place, it is best to place it inside the wall panels and close it with a decorative cover.In this case, in the future, you can replace or connect any additional channel quickly and easily.

If you resorted to floor wiring, the cable and splitter are placed in specially equipped channels inside the plinth.

The connection itself is not particularly difficult, as modern manufacturers have made sure that the device can be easily installed, repaired and, if necessary, replaced.

The workflow includes several steps.

• The ends of the wire are stripped in such a way that the central core is exposed and at the same time protrudes from the sheath by 1.5-2 cm.
• Slightly stepping back from the edge of the cut insulation, it is necessary to clean the surface coating. This is necessary in order to expose the braid with a section of about 1.5 cm.
• The braid should be wrapped around the insulation cover.
• The end of the cable is inserted into the F-connector in such a way that the connection is as tight as possible. After that, the female connector is carefully and tightly screwed onto the desired port of the splitter.

For the difference between a splitter and a tap, see below.

Ways to amplify the power of a TV antenna

Even owners of the “best digital” antenna can experience signal problems. Here is the list of actions by doing which you can significantly bring the image of your TV receiver closer to the ideal one:

1. Apply booster

Typically, a signal booster should be used if you live far from the transmitter. A distance of up to 15 - 20 km from the broadcast tower is a contraindication for television amplification. The close proximity of the tower allows the use of compact passive antenna devices, up to indoor options.

1. Adjust the position and direction of the antenna

The position of your TV antenna matters a lot. Adjust it until you get the best result on the screen, and maybe additional channels.

1. Increase the length of the antenna mast

If you don't believe in making a big difference between receiving at a higher or lower location, then put the antenna in the basement and see what the signal quality becomes when it's underground.

1. Avoid wireless transmission

A home internet router is a great example of interference. A good test is to place the router next to an indoor antenna.

Top Models

There are a large number of antennas with signal amplifiers on the modern market.

Let's take a closer look at some of them.

"Extra" ASP-8

The domestic model is a passive in-phase antenna with 4 pairs of V-shaped vibrators. A distinctive feature of such antennas is that they can be upgraded to achieve optimal signal amplification. The operating frequency range allows you to receive 64 channels in the corridor from 40 to 800 MHz.

Some users note that the build quality of such amplifiers is not the highest. Nevertheless, the manufacturer claims that, when mounted on a mast, antennas with such an amplifier can withstand wind gusts up to 30 m/s.

"Meridian-12AF" from Locus

A fairly budget device that has received many favorable user reviews. Of the positive aspects, the well-thought-out design is noted, as well as a high gain, due to which the TV receiver can receive a signal at a distance of up to 70 km from its source.

The surface of the product is treated with a special anti-corrosion compound, which provides a working resource for 10 years.

"Hummingbird" from REMO

Another antenna that represents the best value for money. It belongs to active models, therefore it needs to be connected to the mains. The power adapter contains a regulator - this allows you to set the desired gain, the maximum value of which corresponds to 35 dB.

All elements of the device are made of metal, so that it can withstand temperature fluctuations. The amplifier is capable of receiving both digital and analog channels. However, the length of the network cable is not long enough, so you will need to buy an extension cord.

"Inter 2.0" from REMO

Residents of the first floors of multi-storey buildings are often forced to purchase an indoor antenna equipped with a signal amplifier, since surrounding objects can create some interference. This model is the leader among such devices.

This is a multifunctional device with an affordable price. The antenna processes 3 radio signals simultaneously, 10 analog and 20 digital. Due to the convenient ergonomic control, you can perform the necessary control of the signal level to ensure maximum quality. Among the advantages, a sufficient length of cables is noted, which allows the amplifier to be installed anywhere. Among the shortcomings, the poor quality of the plastic from which the case is made, and the periodic loss of reception stability in case of adverse weather conditions, are distinguished.

DVB-2T

The amplifier has quite good technical and operational characteristics. Users are attracted by the price, and experts highlight the functionality of the chip.The metal soldered case protects it from adverse mechanical influences. However, users still need to provide reliable protection from precipitation, since this design is located as close as possible to the on-air antenna.

The only negative that some consumers note is that such an amplifier supports frequencies from 470 to 900 MHz. This model is very popular among summer residents and owners of country houses.

Rexant 05-6202

Another popular amplifier model, the distinguishing feature of which is the division of incoming signals into streams. However, in order to function in such a mode, the design needs to amplify all emitted frequencies. The advantage of the model comes down to its versatility, since it supports a fairly impressive frequency range from 5 to 2500 MHz. In addition, the amplifier can work with digital, cable and terrestrial television.

For comparison: all other analogues have only two connectors for cables. However, as practice shows, for such an impressive set of advantages, combined with the democratic cost of the design, they had to pay with their reliability. According to reviews, during use, one of the branches of the splitter may simply fail.

The most powerful indoor antennas

Indoor antennas operate in several ranges - meter or decimeter, providing signal reception at a distance of up to 30 kilometers. Of course, indoor antennas are characterized by the presence of certain limitations in the quality of television waves, therefore, in order to obtain a normal picture, it is necessary to carefully tune each channel.

However, indoor antennas for digital TV reception have their own advantages. First, it is necessary to allocate the compact sizes. Secondly, it is pleasantly pleased with the relatively low cost. Remo is the undisputed leader in the TV antenna market.

Especially for you, a rating of DVB-T2 digital television antennas was compiled. Specialists have selected the best devices with the best price / quality ratio.

Remo BAS-5310USB Horizon

If you have not yet chosen an antenna for DVB-T2, then it's time to pay attention to this model, because it is she who leads our rating. The original appearance is a significant, but by no means the only advantage of the device

The compact size and the presence of a convenient mount will allow you to place it on your TV. Provided that the setting is done correctly, it will receive waves of different channels in the range of 21-69. The amplifier is built-in, which has a positive effect on the quality of the received signal.

If you study the reviews of domestic consumers, you can find a lot of positive comments. Most often, users note the high reception quality and convenient connection via the USB connector. The antenna is able to work with the reflected signal.
The durable case is made of high-quality material, so the protection of hardware parts from mechanical damage is thought out to the smallest detail. Connecting shouldn't be a problem. The weight is only 230 g. The equipment is equipped with a 5 volt power adapter, which is also included. If we talk about the shortcomings, then it is only one - a short power supply cord.

Harper ADVB-2120

The second device goes to the model from the popular manufacturer Harper.It is not surprising, because it has a huge amount of positive feedback from Russian consumers. First, we should highlight the fact that the device picks up frequencies in a wide range - 87.5-862 MHz. Secondly, you can set up not only digital, but also analog TV.

It's hard not to notice the original design, which is also important. After all, this is an indoor television antenna, which means that it will always be in sight.

The amplifier is powered directly from the TV or set-top box, since it does not have a separate network adapter. Of course, this causes restrictions on the use of equipment. But the device boasts a compact size.

Ergonomics of the Harper ADVB-2120 is also on top - if necessary, the TV antenna can be placed on a flat surface. The shape of the closed ring allows you to hang the device on a bracket or hook without much difficulty. Given all the previously listed technical advantages, as well as a relatively low cost, it becomes clear why this model is included in the list of the best.

TV antenna HARPER ADVB-2120

Signal reception: Analog TV, Digital DVB-T/T2, FM radio

Type of instalation: room

Gain: 30 dB

VHF frequency range: 88 - 230 MHz

Frequency range: 470 - 862 MHz

Output impedance: 75 ohm

Amplifier: Yes

Changeable tilt angle: Yes

from 940
All prices and offers

Dimensions: 21x18x7 cm

Remo Inter 2.0

Third place goes to a model that has impressive functionality and a relatively low price. Therefore, it is not surprising that this device holds positions in this segment.

The receiver is designed to connect 20 digital, 10 analog channels. An intuitive control system allows you to set the desired level of signal amplification to achieve the highest possible quality.

Among the main strengths, buyers also include a harmonious design and the most simple installation process. The body of the device is collapsible, assembly takes just a few minutes

Special attention should be paid to the power adapter cable - it has good insulation. Also, the wire of the unit and the TV antenna are approximately the same size, so they can be easily placed in a convenient place.

Purchase selection criteria

The choice of a signal amplifier for a TV antenna depends both on the technical criteria of the device itself and on external factors, such as the location and installation conditions. However, in the first place are always the characteristics that affect the quality of the signal - something for which additional devices are usually purchased.

Criterion #1 - operating frequency range

The frequency range connects three devices - the television receiver itself, the antenna and the amplifier itself. First select the antenna. Here it should be remembered that wide-range ones lose to narrow-range ones, that is, the signal will be weaker.

Antenna amplifier operating in the range of 470-862 MHz and having a gain of at least 30 dB. Can be installed outdoors if additional moisture protection is provided

If the reception area is not far from the repeater, then you can also purchase an "all-wave" covering a wider range.However, it would be better to catch a signal from a remote tower with a device designed for a limited frequency range - for example, MV or UHF.

An amplifier is also selected according to the frequency response of the antenna. If it does not match the range, then it will not work.

Criterion #2 - Noise Figure

The antenna amplifier must correct the signal-to-noise ratio upwards. However, each device receives its own noise during data transmission - and the stronger the signal, the more pronounced they are.

At large amount of noise on the screens televisions, only an intense noise interference known as "snow" will be visible. The image disappears completely, the sound also disappears

It is believed that the noise figure should not exceed 3 dB - this is the only way to guarantee a good signal transmission quality, but the latest generation devices also have lower values ​​- less than 2 dB.

Criterion #3 - Gain

Do not assume that the higher the signal gain, the better the transmission quality will be. In fact, excessive gain leads to signal distortion, which causes the opposite effect - clipping or overloading.

The parameter is measured in dB and has average values:

• decimeter - 30-40 dB;
• meter - 10 dB.

Thus, decimeter can cover both 22 and 60 channels, and meter - no more than 12. If the amplifier increases the coefficient by 15-20 dB, this is considered a good result.

When choosing an amplifier by the coefficient, it is necessary to take into account the real conditions and the level of reception. Usually they are guided by the distance to the tower, that is, the repeater.

An amplifier is usually used if the distance from the repeater to the receiver is at least 9 km.If the tower is 150 km or further, it is useless to use even a powerful device - this is the maximum for which household models are designed

In order not to get into a mess, you can choose a device with the ability to adjust, additional adjustment. There are many universal models, while they are designed for different distances.

If the tower is in line of sight, no amplifier is needed.

Criterion #4 – Active or Passive

If we consider the principle of operation of the device, then it is necessary to take into account the division into active and passive. The passive one works offline, while the active one needs additional power from the network. Most often, the device is connected through an adapter - an adapter for 9 V or 12 V.

The closer the installation location of the active device to the TV, the better the signal will be. A long cable increases the risk of interference that cannot be eliminated by adjustment.

If the device is outdoors, it must be protected from moisture and precipitation. Sometimes the following option is implemented: the antenna with the amplifier is installed outside, and the adapter is left inside the room.

But it is better to follow the manufacturer's instructions, which usually warns of interference with improper installation.

Digital TV Signal Amplifier

To eliminate some of the listed reasons, a digital TV signal amplifier is used. It is installed on a remote antenna, next to a room antenna or separately, connected with a coaxial cable. The type of device is chosen depending on the specific conditions and requirements.

Purpose and principle of operation

Once you figure out that you can improve the quality of the transmitted information by equalizing or stabilizing the received signal with an amplifier, it remains to buy a suitable device and install it. This almost always helps if the cable from the roof mounted antenna is too long.

It is also possible to remove interference with an amplifier if the reason is in a large number of antenna connectors, which not only conduct the signal, but also significantly attenuate it

The purpose of a TV signal amplifier is thus to improve data transmission and, as a result, a clear, unblurred picture on the TV screen and clear sound.

Digital television differs from analog television in that when used at points remote from the translator, you only need to install a narrowly directed antenna and select a signal amplifying device under it.

A noise-resistant amplifier for digital data transmission, equalization and signal stabilization is installed directly in front of the digital receiver

Powerful devices for DVB-T2 not only amplify the signal received by the antenna, but can also perform additional functions: sum up data transmission from 2-3 antennas or, conversely, split one signal into several outputs.

Types of antenna amplifiers

You can practically check whether it is worth buying an amplifier in an elementary way: install a TV and a signal-receiving antenna nearby. If the image becomes clearer, it makes sense to buy a signal amplifier, if the picture on the screen does not improve, you will first have to replace the antenna itself.

When choosing an amplifier, you should not pay attention to devices designed for powerful TV installations.Devices designed for home television are suitable - that is, for medium and small antennas. There are 3 categories of amplifiers on sale:

There are 3 categories of amplifiers on sale:

• Range. The sample is a UHF device intended for digital data transmission DVB-T2.
• Multi-band, operating in the decimeter and meter range, that is, recognizing all transmitted signals.
• Broadband - LSA and SWA. They amplify the signal transmitted in a given band.

If you tell a consultant in a store that you need a device to amplify a digital signal, then most likely he will offer a choice among special digital amplifiers - devices with boards operating in the UHF (decimeter wave range).

Advantages and disadvantages of devices

The selected amplifier cannot be good or bad, it is necessary that it fits the technical specifications. Even an expensive high-quality adapter can both improve the signal and make it unstable.

To prevent this from happening, the design of the home television network should be considered even before installing the main elements - the TV, antennas and amplifying devices.

The advantages of the device are obvious: it amplifies the signal, improves its visible part - the picture on the TV screen, and blocks interference. But there are a number of disadvantages that need to be taken into account.

Ideally, when using several TV receivers, the number of amplifiers should be limited, since any additional device distorts the video stream, and not only improves the signal. The result of distortions can be their layering on top of each other and a negative result.

An unexpected effect can be obtained if a broadband amplifier is used. Receiving signals of different levels from the repeater, the amplifier raises the frequencies, overloads the stream coming to the connector of the receiver or decoder.

As a result, the signal parameters, and subsequently the image quality, drop sharply. The situation can be saved by the ability to adjust the amplifier, but not over the entire range, but at individual frequencies.

Do you need an amplifier

Sometimes an amplifier is simply not needed. If you just brought the TV to the country or to a country house, it is better to check right away whether it is worth spending money. For such a check, you will need the TV itself and a piece of any wire. The latter must be inserted into the antenna connector and twist its free end in different directions, as if trying to adjust. These actions are absolutely safe.

If you managed to catch 2-3 channels with a normal sound and a quite tolerable image, you won't need an amplifier. This means that the signal in this area passes well and a conventional antenna will be quite enough.

Otherwise, an amplifier is indispensable.

Types of antennas and possible causes of signal degradation

To begin with, a little theory and let's figure out what is the cause of a bad signal.

Television antennas for country houses and cottages are divided into two main types - satellite and terrestrial. The first is a familiar plate to everyone. The diameter of such an antenna can vary from 0.5 to 5 meters.

The advantages of this device are obvious and known to everyone:

• many channels;
• excellent broadcast quality;
• ease of maintenance and operation;
• works independently of the towers, that is, the terrain and locations do not affect the signal.

But, sometimes all these pluses outweigh one big minus - the cost of a plate with mounting.The fact is that the system itself is not so expensive, but the installation price is high. Installing a satellite dish is a laborious process; an inexperienced person is unlikely to cope with the installation of the device on their own.

Also, a satellite dish is not suitable for giving if the village is not inhabited by permanent residents. Firstly, it can simply be stolen when you are not there. Secondly, if you come to the country 5-6 times a year, the installation costs are simply meaningless.

There are terrestrial antennas in almost every home. They are divided into two types:

• internal. Installed indoors, has a small size;
• outdoor. It is placed on the street, most often on the roof or wall of the upper floor of the building. Sizes may vary.

For summer cottages, they most often choose terrestrial antennas, since they cost an order of magnitude cheaper than satellite ones, and you don’t need to hire specialists for installation.

An internal terrestrial antenna transmits a weaker signal, so it is advisable to install it only in areas where there is a tower nearby and the signal is excellent. In addition, depending on the location of the device inside the rooms, the quality of the signal depends. The best place for the antenna is chosen individually by trial and error.

An outdoor antenna can pick up the signal better than an indoor one. It is also located using the “scientific poke” method, usually in the direction of the nearest tower or repeater.

A signal booster may be required if the signal from the transmitter (tower) is too weak.

Why is the signal weak?

For example, you have purchased an expensive TV and an appropriate antenna for your country house. Placed the outdoor unit at the highest point towards the tower, but the signal is still weak.Many begin to complain about deceptive sellers and unfortunate producers, but do not rush to scold them. The point, most likely, is not in the purchased equipment, but in other external factors.

So, signal degradation may be due to:

distant location of the source (tower);
cable. Sometimes, in order to lengthen the wire connecting the antenna to the TV, simply twist two pieces of cable together. Such a connection contributes to the deterioration of signal transmission. It is best when the cable is solid. If not, then the connection must be made by soldering

It is also worth paying attention to the age of the wire itself. Everything deteriorates over time, and the antenna cable must be replaced every two decades;
natural or artificial interference

The former include terrain features (elevations and lowlands), while the latter include civilizations (the signal can be jammed by various devices located near the antenna, and so on).

In all of the above situations, a television antenna amplifier will help.

What is an antenna amplifier

You may have heard the terms passive and active antennas. Passive antennas receive a signal only due to their shape. But the active ones incorporate some converters in order to increase the useful signal.

A passive antenna can be made active by adding an amplifier. This option is much more convenient than purchasing an antenna with a built-in amplifying device. When it fails, the device is easy to replace. Yes, and you can place it not necessarily on the antenna, but, for example, in the attic, which will allow you to keep the device working longer.

So, a TV amplifier is a device that amplifies the TV signal and reduces the level of interference, which allows you to get a better image on the screen.

The terrestrial waves of television channels are in the range of meter (MV) and decimeter (UHF) frequencies. The former have a frequency of 30 to 300 MHz, and the latter from 300 to 3000 MHz.

According to the range of received frequencies, amplifying devices can be:

• Broadband - cover a wide range of waves;
• Range (work in the decimeter or meter range);
• Multi-band (can work in both ranges).

As a rule, if the signal is not bad, then it is enough to use a broadband amplifier. In case of poor reception, it is preferable to choose a narrowly focused device, which in its range will do its job much better than a broadband one.

DVB-T2 is the standard used for digital broadcasting. Digital channels can only work in the UHF range, respectively, amplifying devices of this range are suitable for digital television.

Amplifying devices also differ in the required supply voltage. The most common are 12-volt. They require an additional power supply. Sometimes blocks are adjustable.

5 volts can be connected directly to a TV tuner or TV via a coaxial cable. Most often they are attached directly to the antenna.

They are also classified by type of television, which are called:

• Antenna;
• satellite;
• Cable.

Cable and satellite amplifying devices are used extremely rarely, since the quality of the signal they transmit is already quite high.In rare cases, an amplifier is used for cable TV if several television devices are connected to the cable.

But antennas are used quite often. Further we will talk about antenna amplifying devices.