Thread: OTA installation

Hello guys,

I am looking to do an OTA installation. Did some research. I am located ~60miles away from NYC, where most of the desirable stations are.

I've read that it's a good idea to get a preamp, and some sites like Denny's Antenna, recommend to get a preamp 5-10db greater than total system loss (splitters, and cable length).
This is fine, but TV Fool shows that there are some stations between myself and NYC, that are much closer... 20-40 miles.
What I am worried about is overload. If it happens, does it cause any physical damage to a tuner? If these stations are overloaded, is there a way to decrease the signal specifically on them, to receive them?

How high above the roof (where it will be mounted) is a good idea to position the antenna, considering the 60 miles distance?

Does the antenna need to be perfectly plumb, or it does not matter?

Thank you for any advice.

At that distance your not going to have any issue with overload of the signal, and as far as height the higher the better and the pole should be made plumb as possible.

Thank you Sergei.

I was looking at a "Winegard AP8700", but there's also a "Winegard AP8275", which provides higher gain. The coax length should be <50 feet, for a single TV (no splitters). Would you recommend getting the first, the second, or something else?
For an antenna, I was looking at the Winegard HD8200U.

I was looking at a "Winegard AP8700", but there's also a "Winegard AP8275", which provides higher gain. The coax length should be <50 feet, for a single TV (no splitters). Would you recommend getting the first, the second, or something else?

With that antenna I would also suggest having a rotor and I'd go with the AP8275 as it gives more gain on the UHF end with the same noise figure as the the other one.

Thank you! Much appreciated!

You may not need that monster 8200 antenna or 8725 preamp. Please post your TV Fool so we can have a better idea of your exact situation.

TV Fool

Thanks!

The NYC stations are right on the edge for you with antenna height of 20 feet. The Wilkes-Barre stations will be more reliable, but will probably not offer the HD options of the NYC stations. Either way, you will need maximum signal gathering strength.

The
Antennacraft Y10-7-13

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separates would be my antenna recommendations. I would use the dual input
Channel Master 7777


preamp to join the 2 antennas efficiently & amplify the weak signals. Try this set-up aimed towards NYC & see if you are pleased with the results. If some of the networks prove unreliable, I would add a rotator to select some of the stronger Wilkes-Barre affiliates. CBS from New York may be tough for you, but you may get lucky. Any additional height would likely help as well.

What's the advantage of using these two antennas, as opposed to that one Winegard (besides for price)?

Should they be pointed differently?

Is one better for UHF, and the other for VHF?