Combining Two Antennas

[coloradosat]

Hi, there-

I am smack in the middle of two DMAs. Right now, I have a coat hangar special in the attic pointed towards Denver with good results. I have just ordered a CM-2020 for the outside to better pull-in KUSA 9 and KBDI. Once I get the 2020 installed, I am going to flip the coat hangar towards Cheyenne since it seems to work for pulling a few stations in, including KGWN 5.

My question. What piece of equipment will work best for combining the coat hangar and 2020?

Thanks!

 

[Jim5506]

You do not want to combine two different antennas operating on the same band, especially if they are in different directions, they will tend to radiate signal out froeach other and less will go to your TV.

In this situation run seperate cables from both antennas to the TV and get an RF switch to select between them.

 

[kschramm]

what about an antenna rotator. and just use one antenna.

 

[coloradosat]

what about an antenna rotator. and just use one antenna.

Good point. Got any recommendations?

 

[kschramm]

Good point. Got any recommendations?

I use this one Channel Master 9521A

works great, has a remote. you can set presets.

I have the same issue you you. I live between Wash D.C. and Baltimore TV markets. plus a couple smaller market stations to the west of me. Rotator does great job and fun to play with.

 

[Tower Guy]

My question. What piece of equipment will work best for combining the coat hangar and 2020?

If the signals are strong enough and there are no reflections a backwards splitter may work. To know for sure it's best to look at the signals levels at your house using TVfcool.com.

In order to get away with a backwards splitter all signals must have a noise margin of at least 10 db and plan on a preamp. If all the signals have a NM of 30 db or more, you won't need a preamp. If any signals are above about 60 db NM the use of a preamp will prevent reception of some stations.

 

[coloradosat]

Thanks, guys! I am hoping to get some advice on a good rotator in this thread.