HDTv Antenna LabsAll About HD Antennas
HDTv Antenna LabsA Smart Antenna, or SA, is a special type of antenna that utilizes smart signal processing algorithms in order to identify spatial signal signature. The main purposes of a Smart Antenna are to identify the signal’s direction of arrival as well as to calculate the beamforming vectors of the signal. Consumers were largely unaware of the Smart Antenna concept until more recently, as the technology is becoming more frequently used as consumers decide to purchase HD converters in order to be able to receive digital broadcasts on their analog televisions.
Here we list the top rated HD converters with a smart antenna interface.
Reading the table columns: CECD = Coupon-eligible, SA = Smart Antenna, AP = Analog-passthrough, SVideo=S-Video, EPG = Electronic Program Guide, URC = Universal Remote Control
| Converter | CECD | SA | AP | S-Video | EPG | URC | Total Reviews | Average Rating | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tivax T9 | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | 5 | 4.6 | Read reviews | Write a review | Compare prices |
| RCA DTA800B | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | 32 | 2.3 | Read reviews | Write a review | Compare prices |
In order to understand the purpose of a Smart Antenna, it is important to first understand the concept of DOA estimation. With the help of special algorithms known as Multiple Single Classification (MUSIC) and Estimation of Signal Parameters via Rotational Invariant Techniques (ESPRIT), a smart antenna is able to estimate the direction from which a signal will arrive. This process involves finding the spatial spectrum of the antenna array and making calculations based on the peaks found within the spectrum.
Once the DOA estimate is completed, the Smart Antenna is then able to use a process known as beamforming to create the antenna array’s radiation pattern. This is done by adding the phases of the signals in the desired direction of the target and negating the pattern of those targets that are interfering with the process.
There are two main types of Smart Antennas for consumers to select from. One of these is the switched beam Smart Antenna, which has multiple beam patterns that are in a fixed position. With this type of antenna, the system decides which beam to access based upon the system’s current requirements.
The other type of Smart Antenna is the adaptive array antenna. This configuration allows the antenna to point the beam in the necessary direction while also nullifying any signals that may be causing interference.
Consumers wishing to take advantage of Smart Antenna technology, whether fixed position or adaptive array, should search for an HD converter that supports this technology. There are many different HD converters available for those needing to convert digital signals to analog signals in order to watch television broadcasts on their analog TVs. For those wishing to support Smart Antenna technology, it is important to select a converter that specifically states it provides this type of support.
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