By the end of this year (2013), all analog television signals will be shut down, as part of Australia’s “big switch” to digital technology. Many areas of Australia have already completed the switch, whilst others have yet to take the final step. If you have adopted digital technology, you will already be viewing the additional channels which have come along since the phasing out of analog began. In addition to the extra channels, you will find electronic program guides available for each stations daily schedule and the ability to watch your favourite programs in HD (high definition). Digital TV also means you’ll still be able to watch shows made overseas, as international programs are mostly made in digital format. Now is a great time to make sure you are prepared for when Australia is 100% digital.
What will you need to make sure you won’t be cut off?
1. Digitally capable television or digital set top box
The majority of televisions on the market now are considered digitally capable. If you have one of these televisions, you should be receiving all the free to air digital broadcasted channels.
If you have an older model television that broadcasts in analog, then you will need to connect a "set top box" to it. A set top box will receive the digital signals and allow you to view it on your current television.
2. Digital capable antenna – Kookaburra Digital TV Antenna (below)
This 32 element antenna is suitable for urban, suburban and rural areas between 25-60km from the transmission signal. It has 4mm solid aluminium elements and is compatible with all digital and analogue TVs. It includes a U-bolt for mounting to a mast (mast not included) and an 'F' connector jack for quick and easy connection of a cable between the antenna and your TV. The Kookaburra antenna provides reception of digital channels for VHF (Band 3) and UHF (Band 4 & 5).
3. RG6 Quad Shield Coax Cable
Cable suitable for connecting your antenna through to your television can be bought in large spools,depending on the distance needed to travel. This is an RG6 cable with 75 ohm characteristic impedance. Insulated with an aluminium foil sheath and protected by a black PVC outer sheath. For the ultimate in low signal loss TV connection and purest signal transfer around the home, this particular cable is a 100m length of quad shielded RG6 coaxial cable and is metre marked which makes the job easier!
4. Distribution
Splitter - To ensure you achieve the signal in the areas you want around your home, you may adopt a splitter, which allows you to split the signal received inside the house, to various other rooms. It is really common to split the signal as most homes have more than one television. The splitter can be discretely tucked within the wall cavity, and a wall plate used to allow access to the antenna cable. See below
Masthead Amplifier - A masthead amplifier (MHA) can be used to “boost” the signal received by your antenna. As the name suggests, it amplifies a low signal to improve the reception. Keep in mind however, that if you are experiencing interference, this will also amplify the interference. See below
A masthead amplifier also requires a power supply to operate. These masthead amps can be powered by either 14 Volt DC, 17.5 V AC or 22 V AC*. See images below
5. Wall Plates
Incorporating wall plates specifically designed for antenna connections is a neat and professional way of finishing the connection between the antenna and the home. Some plates even have additional inputs, such as the network port on the wall plate shown below.
6. Fly Lead
Next you will need the cable, also known as “fly lead” to connect from your wall plate to your set top box or television. If you are not using a splitter, masthead amplifier or wall plate, your cable will run directly from your antenna, through your roof or wall, and into your set top box or television.
7. Connectors
Keep in mind that not all devices you will be connecting to will have the same input. Fly leads come with a connector, however you may need to incorporate an adapter should your input be different on your device. View connectors online
If you need any further help getting set up, feel free to call our Selby Techs on 1800 69 2225
Check Out Our Store!
We stock a great range of antenna cables, splitters and adaptors, all available in our store.