To ensure comfortable TV viewing with a terrestrial antenna, it must be set up properly to provide the best signal. We should consider several factors, which we will discuss in the text below. We will recall practical tips on setting up a terrestrial antenna, linking its configuration to the TV settings, and discuss ways to locate the nearest DVB-T2 transmitters. We invite you to read!
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How to set up a terrestrial antenna to receive as many channels as possible?
With the expansion of the Internet and new technologies, traditional television no longer has such a powerful influence, but its status remains unthreatened. Many people still receive it using a terrestrial antenna. This can sometimes play tricks and not receive the signal in a satisfactory way, which of course translates into a worse quality of the received image.
The most important thing is that the external antenna receives as many channels as possible. And for this to be possible, it must be correctly aligned towards the nearest transmitter. The first step should therefore be to check the locations of DVB-T2 transmitters in your area.
To do this, you can use maps available online, such as Emitel. They show the location of transmitters and the direction of the signal emission. Once you have determined the direction, simply turn the antenna towards the nearest transmitter. A compass or a smartphone app can be helpful here.
Another factor is the height of the antenna. As a rule, the higher you place it, the better the signal you will get. You also need to make sure that there are no obstacles in the way of the transmitter, such as trees or tall buildings. The external antenna must also be securely mounted, because otherwise the wind can change the settings.
An extremely important step is also to calibrate the antenna, which you can do using a TV or tuner. Turn on the channel search option, then gently rotate the antenna while observing the signal strength indicator. Find the optimal position, thanks to which you will be able to find the maximum number of channels, as well as the best image quality. It may also be the case that you live far from the transmitter - in this situation, it is worth considering buying a signal amplifier, which will improve the quality of reception in difficult terrain conditions.
Setting up a terrestrial antenna and setting up a TV
Remember, however, that setting up the terrestrial antenna is only half the battle, because it is equally important to correctly configure the TV or DVB-T2 tuner. This will allow you to use the signal potential to the maximum. After correctly pointing the antenna towards the transmitter, use the antenna cable and connect it to the socket on the TV or tuner. In the next step, look in the device menu and select the channel search option. In the vast majority of models, this is located in the "Settings" or "Channels" section.
During the search, it is best to select automatic mode, thanks to which the TV will scan all available frequencies on its own. Also, make sure that you have selected the digital reception option (DVB-T2), because the older analogue modes are no longer used in our country. During the scan, pay attention to the signal strength and quality indicators. If it is weak, you should return to the antenna to slightly change its position.
It may also be that the channels you receive are disrupted or, even worse, some of them are not displayed. In such a situation, it is worth checking the length and quality of the antenna cable. If it is damaged, it may negatively affect the signal. Also, remember to select the correct region and frequency in the TV settings according to the location of the transmitter.
How to check where DVB-T2 transmitters are?
As we have already mentioned, but it is worth repeating and explaining in more detail - in order to effectively set up a terrestrial antenna, you need to know the location of the nearest DVB-T2 transmitters. Specialist websites allow you to find this information. They offer interactive signal coverage maps, which allow you to determine what is key in this context. Using them is very simple - just enter your address or postcode to see where the transmitters are located in your area, as well as in which direction to point the antenna.
Also pay attention to the signal parameters, such as the frequency and broadcast channel. You will find them in the search results. This allows you to precisely tune your TV or tuner. For people living in areas with difficult terrain, with large obstacles, such as mountains or tall buildings, it is recommended to check alternative transmitters, because sometimes more distant ones can paradoxically provide better signal quality. Mobile applications are also useful. They help - based on geolocation - to find the nearest transmitters, and also indicate the direction of their emission.
A well-positioned indoor antenna is a necessary condition for obtaining the best signal and thus watching TV comfortably - without any interference.