Which antenna to use for digital broadcast?

Started by MaineRhino, November 12, 2008, 08:10:04 PM

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MaineRhino

Does anyone know what type or specific model of antenna to use for reception of HD channels in a remote area? We are probably over 50 miles to the nearest digital tower and get limited reception using a high quality indoor (digital) antenna. We get 2 HD stations if the weather is good.
I'd like to install an outdoor (pole mounted) antenna.

MountainDon

I can't comment on an HD antenna, but will relate my experiences with analog vs digital.

1. Here at home we're about 12 miles, direct line of sight to the antennas. We can see them. We get all the channels with the same antenna we've had for 25 years. It's about a $50 item, mounted on a  ft mast on the roof.

2. In the mountains we're about 38 miles line of sight. We cannot see the mountain where they are, let alone see the antennas. An antenna that is a step up from the home antenna brings in all the same analog stations with a little bit of snow on a couple of the lower channels (2 thru 5). Changing to digital with the same antenna we lose channels 5 and up, but 2 and 4 are excellent. I'll either need to raise the antenna or get a larger one. Presently the antenna is about 15 feet off the ground.

I've found two web pages that are great for antenna info.
http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx
http://www.solidsignal.com/?xfermeth=directg&gclid=CIKt7ez-8JYCFSJIagodmH0HXg


Just because something has been done and has not failed, doesn't mean it is good design.


harry51

Be sure to check out the "Choose an antenna" function at Antennaweb. Also, google "smart antenna" for an interesting new device.
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