Antenna amplifier for TV: principle of operation, selection, DIY manufacturing

The problem of insufficiently strong TV signal, due to which the image quality on the TV screen decreases, is solved by using a signal amplifier coming from the TV antenna. You can choose a suitable device from our rating of the best models or, if you have some experience, make such a device yourself.

What is a TV aerial amplifier?

A TV amplifier is a device for amplifying the TV signal and reducing the level of interference, which provides a better picture. The device enhances the sensitivity, limited by noise effects, and compensates for the loss of the received television signal in the coaxial cable. https://youtu.be/GI89hrNQ-BA

Antenna amplifier design features

Amplifiers for television antennas are simple and can vary in design, can amplify both digital and analog signals. In some cases, they are formed by two boards with an implemented noise reduction circuit. One circuit is a high-pass filter, the second has a capacitor that regulates the frequency. The regulator helps to obtain the maximum TV signal gain of 4.7 dB with an operating frequency of 400 MHz. To obtain stability, they use a stabilizer with an electrolyte and a diode bridge included in its circuit. The amplifier is connected to the TV receiver using a capacitor. All amplifiers for the antenna are equipped with a power supply, only the place of its placement (built-in and external) differs. The built-in device functions well with a stable electrical voltage and will consume up to 10 V.If the device burns out, you will need to replace the entire antenna device. For this reason, in the presence of power surges, it will be more convenient to use external units. They are larger in size and have different input voltages depending on the amplifier (5, 12, 18, 24 V).

Classification

For terrestrial waves of TV channels use the range of meter (MV) and decimeter (UHF) frequencies. In the first case, a frequency of 30-300 MHz is used, and in the second – 300-3000 MHz. Depending on the range of the received frequency, the amplifier can be:

• broadband – to cover a wide wavelength spectrum;
• range – uses meter or decimeter range for operation;
• multi-band , intended for both bands.

In the usual case, with a good signal, a broadband amplifier is sufficient. With a weak reception, it is worth using a narrowly targeted device, which better than a broadband one fulfills its role in a certain range.

Digital broadcasting is carried out using the
DVB-T2 standard . For digital TV channels, only the UHF range is used, therefore, an amplifier for digital television of the DVB-T2 standard is suitable for digital TV broadcasting. Test of antenna amplifiers for digital television DVB-T2: https://youtu.be/oLRaiYPj6sQ The amplifiers also differ in accordance with the required voltage:

1. Twelve volts are the most common. They will require the addition of an additional power supply, which in some cases can be regulated.
2. Five-volt can be connected to a TV tuner or TV using a coaxial cable. As a rule, they are fixed to the antenna.

Depending on the type of television, amplifying devices are classified in the following order:

• antenna;
• satellite;
• cable.

Cable and satellite amplifiers are used very rarely, because they transmit an already quite high quality signal. Sometimes, with cable TV broadcasting, they use an amplifier if the cable is connected to several TVs at once. Antenna amplifying devices are used much more often.

Advantages and disadvantages of TV signal amplifiers

When setting up a home television network, you should remember: if you use several amplifying circuits, then there will be a significant distortion of the video stream. In this regard, the number of amplifiers for antennas should be minimal.

The advantages of amplifiers include:

• the ability to receive even the weakest TV signals;
• the presence of small noise coefficients;
• the ability to amplify the signal simultaneously over several frequency ranges.

The disadvantages of amplifying devices are:

• if a broadband amplifier is used, there is a possibility of overloading the permissible TV signal level, therefore, it must be equipped with a regulator for different ranges in order to exclude such a nuisance;
• self-excitation of the device;
• susceptibility to thunderstorms;
• the probability of loss of the TV signal at the output.

The amplifiers correct the signal from the antenna to the TV. In this regard, the choice is influenced by the terrain and the need for television equipment. An amplifier for a TV antenna outside the city helps to effectively solve a difficult issue in obtaining a high-quality TV signal.

The main criteria for choosing TV signal amplifiers

The amplifier for the TV antenna is selected according to the technical criteria of the device and in accordance with external factors (for example, the place and conditions of installation). The most important thing is to take into account the characteristics that affect the quality of the television signal, for which they resort to using additional devices.

Working frequency range

Three devices are associated with the frequency range: a TV, an
antenna and an amplifier. An antenna is selected first. In this selection, one should take into account the superiority of narrow-beam over wide-range in signal strength. If the repeater is located close to the reception area, then an “all-wave” is suitable, capable of covering a wider range. Receiving a signal from a remote TV tower will be achievable using a device adapted to a limited frequency range (for example, MV or UHF).

The amplifier is selected according to the frequency response of the antenna. In the event of a range mismatch, the existing device cannot function.

Noise figure

With the help of the amplifier, the TV-signal-to-noise ratio should be corrected upward. Taking into account the fact that during data transmission each device receives its own noises, as the signal increases, they also acquire a more significant expression. It is generally accepted that the value of the noise effect should not exceed 3 dB. Only under such conditions can we talk about guarantees of good quality of TV signal transmission. However, newer devices may have a lower value of 2 dB.

Gain

The presence of the highest possible ratio does not guarantee the best transmission quality. Moreover, with excessive gain, distortion of the TV signal will occur with the appearance of the opposite effect (clipping or overload). To measure the parameter, dB is used, and its average values ​​are:

• decimeter – from 30 to 40 dB;
• meter – 10 dB.

From this it follows that UHF will have coverage from 20 to 60 TV channels, and meter – no more than 12. With an increase in the gain by 15-20 dB, we can speak of a good result.

When choosing an amplifier by coefficient, you need to be based on real conditions and the level of reception. As a rule, the distance from the TV tower (repeater) is taken into account. If the TV tower is located in direct line of sight, then the purchase of an amplifier is not required.

Active or passive antenna

Antennas for receiving a TV signal can be passive and active:

• a passive antenna receives a signal only due to its own shape;
• a special amplifier is provided for the active antenna , which increases the strength of the useful signal.

The active antenna must be provided with additional power from the mains. As a rule, an amplifying device is connected using a 9 or 12 V adapter-adapter. If the device is located outdoors, then you need to cover it from the rain. Be sure to take into account the information in the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the potential for interference if the device is not installed correctly. A passive antenna can also be converted to an active antenna if an amplifier is added to it. This option may be more convenient than buying an antenna with a built-in amplification device – if the amplifier breaks down, it can be easily replaced. You can place it not next to the antenna itself, but in the attic or in the room, which will ensure a longer service life of the device.

Do-it-yourself active antenna with amplifier for digital TV:

https://youtu.be/YfR9TgaDf1Q

TOP 6 best antenna amplifiers for TVs

Some amplifiers are popular due to their simplicity of design, low cost and easy installation. On occasion, you can replace and repair them yourself. When buying an external amplifier, you need to take care of its tightness. External devices are changed every 2 years, even if they are protected. For this reason, it is best to try to find a place for the amplifier under the roof.

Antenna amplifier F-02

Cable-powered, all-wave backbone amplification device. It amplifies the TV signal in the meter and decimeter range with an operating range (1-12 k) and UHF (21-60 k). Gain – up to 25 dB, noise figure – up to 2 dB, supply voltage – 12 V. Estimated cost – 350 rubles.

Delta UATIP-03 MV + DMV

An amplifying broadband device for individual use in the meter (1 to 12 channels) and decimeter (21 to 69 channels) ranges. Power supply 12 V. Estimated cost – 672 rubles.

SWA-999 for “grid”

An amplifier for a Polish antenna (“grid”) with a frequency range from 48 to 862 MHz and a 12V power supply. Gain – 28-34 dB. Estimated cost – 113 rubles.
Amplifier SWA-999 by Eurosky [/ caption] https://youtu.be/QvRGUGq_eOs

REMO INDOOR USB (BAS-8102 5V)

Antenna multipurpose amplifier that converts a passive antenna into an active antenna and eliminates the power supply for the antenna amplifier. The gain is up to 16 dB. Food – 5 V. Estimated cost – 245 rubles.

REMO Booster-DiGi (BAS-8207)

Antenna amplifier with an average gain of 21-69 channels. Power supply – 12V. The noise figure is no more than 2.8 dB. Estimated cost – 425 rubles.

Planar 21-69 FT series

Antenna amplifier for cable with a frequency range of 470 to 468 MHz and a gain of up to 22 dB. Power supply – 12V. Noise figure – 4 dB. Estimated cost – 350 rubles.

How to make an antenna amplifier for a TV with your own hands?

First, you should prepare materials and tools:

• aluminum plate;
• copper wire;
• bracket;
• adapter;
• nuts, bolts, washers, screws;
• TV cable;
• rubber belt from the tractor;
• insulating tape;
• wrench with hammer.

Even if you have experience in such work, a detailed study of the instructions will be very useful. The sequence of performing these actions and the purpose of each detail is of particular importance. The algorithm of actions is as follows:

1. Holes are cut (three in the rubber, one in the plate).
2. You will also need a hole in the bracket and antenna location.
3. The wire must be bent and connected at the ends with a self-tapping screw.
4. The cable is connected to the adapter and the connection is isolated.
5. All the details come together. At the end, the cable attachment area with wire is isolated using electrical tape.

A self-made amplifier device has another advantage – that it is not necessary to adjust the finished device. It is connected very simply: the board is connected to the antenna and the quality of the amplification is checked. There should be no extraneous noise during the operation of the device. For the amplifier, it is better to prepare some kind of enclosure to protect it from environmental influences. To get a good picture and sound, you need not only an amplifier, but also the choice of a suitable mounting location. You will also need a lightning rod. Beer Antenna for Digital TV with Amplifier: https://youtu.be/axJSfcThfSU

At the beginning of operation, you need to monitor the quality of the amplification of the TV signal, and if problems appear, they must be immediately eliminated.

Antenna booster for your TV can help you avoid interference and other problems associated with poor TV reception. When buying a device, you need to focus on a number of important criteria, and when making it yourself – on the correct sequence of actions and a competent choice of place for installation.