Aug 17
10
We were called out to a property where the customer was only receiving a small selection of Freeview channels. They suspected a problem with the TV aerial because some channels were missing altogether and others were breaking up. Our job was to test the signal, find out which transmitter the aerial was using, and see if we could improve the reception.
Initial Inspection
On inspection we found that the existing aerial was actually pointing at a Freeview Lite transmitter. That explained why the channel list was limited – the transmitter itself does not broadcast the full Freeview line-up, so even with a healthy aerial system the customer would never receive every channel available in their area.
Finding a Better Signal Source
We carried out a set of signal readings from the roof to see what other transmitters were available from that location. The tests showed that we could receive a usable signal from Winter Hill. Winter Hill carries the full Freeview service, so if we could realign the aerial to that transmitter, the customer would gain all the main channels.
Aerial Realignment and Signal Level
We re-aligned the aerial away from the Freeview Lite transmitter and onto Winter Hill. This immediately opened up the full service. However, the signal strength from Winter Hill at this particular property was a little on the low side. Low signal can lead to picture break-up, especially in poor weather or when the signal is split to more than one TV.
Installing a Mast Head Amplifier
To make sure the customer would have a stable, problem-free picture, we installed a mast head amplifier at the aerial. Fitting the amplifier close to the aerial boosts the signal before it travels down the cable, which is the most effective way to increase level when the incoming signal is marginal.
Once the mast head amp was fitted and powered, we re-tested the signal at the TV point. The readings were well within the target range and the Freeview channel scan now pulled in the full service from Winter Hill.
Result
- Customer upgraded from a limited Freeview Lite service to the full Freeview service.
- Aerial now correctly aligned to Winter Hill.
- Signal level increased using a mast head amplifier.
- No more drop-outs or annoying picture break-up.
Conclusion
This job shows how important it is to check which transmitter the aerial is using, not just the condition of the aerial. The customer’s hardware wasn’t the main issue – the aerial was simply pointing at the wrong transmitter for the channels they wanted. By re-aligning to Winter Hill and adding a mast head amplifier, we were able to deliver the full Freeview service with a strong, reliable signal.
