The splitters used to connect multiple TVs to one antenna differ from each other in a number of parameters. When choosing such a device, one should be guided by the frequencies of the received channels, the number of TVs, cable thickness and even the skills of the installer.
Instructions
Step 1
If your TV can show the frequencies of the received channels via the menu, check this information about all the programs you are receiving. Find the channel with the highest frequency. When choosing a splitter, make sure that the upper end of the range is greater than this frequency. In the absence of a frequency display function on the TV, it is useful to borrow a device with such an opportunity from friends.
Step 2
The splitter must have more outputs than the number of TVs you have. If in some of the rooms you do not have television receivers, it is useful to take a device "for growth" with additional outputs. Over time, perhaps you will purchase televisions for these rooms as well.
Step 3
Pay attention to such a parameter as attenuation. It is expressed in decibels. Its value is indicated on the body of the splitter or in its instructions. The smaller it is, the better.
Step 4
Decide in advance how and where you will install the splitter. It is highly advisable to fix it on the wall, and not leave it to stick to the cables alone - it is both safer and more beautiful. In this case, the device must have mounting holes. If the device will be located in a conspicuous place, it should have an aesthetic appearance. If you are going to install the splitter inside a wide cable duct, it should have a minimum size.
Step 5
Choose the method of connecting the device in accordance with the types of cables used, as well as your soldering skills. The splitter with screw terminals is compatible with cables of any diameter, and does not require soldering. You will not need it to install a device with threaded connectors, but only thin cables can be connected to it. If you have soldering skills, buy a splitter designed to connect in this way. Finally, a device equipped with coaxial jacks (like on a TV) can be connected to any cables using conventional antenna plugs. Purchase the plugs themselves in the same store, and choose their type depending on the availability of soldering skills (some of them allow the cable to be connected with screws).
Step 6
When purchasing a splitter, do not confuse with another device of a similar purpose: a combiner or splitter of signals of different ranges. Some older TVs have separate VHF and UHF antenna inputs. Next to such a device, you will have to place a signal splitter, which allows you to connect both inputs to one antenna cable.
