Use Existing Coaxial Cable?

[gpmuro]

Can I connect my outdoor antenna to the existing coaxial cable that was pre-wired in the house for cable TV?
Will the length of run affect reception?
Since there is a coaxial drop-off in many rooms, will I get a signal in each room?
32934 2-3 sets


Thanks

[tigerbangs]

Yes, you can use the cable that was pre-installed in your house for a TV antenna. First of all, you need to identify where the wires converge inside your house: typically, they are in a utility closet or attic. Once you have identified where the cables are, you can choose to connect all of them by using a distribution amplifier and/or a splitter, or you can connect only the ones that you plan to use. Which distribution amp and splitters you use will depend on how many TV sets will be connected. You can use the antenna system for your FM radios, as well, if you choose an antenna that has FM reception. if you find out how many cables and locations are involved, let us know, and we can make recommendations about antennas and amplifiers that will work for you.

[gpmuro]

I found the cables.
There is a Electroline EDA 2400 drop amp in place. (4 ports)
There is a bundle of eight unconnected cables.
I plan to use three cables.
Can you suggest a antenna? I will probably mount it outside - second story.
Will the amp be sufficient?
Area code 32934


Thanks

[tigerbangs]

The amp will be just fine for you: you can connect up to 4 TV sets to it, and it will compensate for whatever line losses you incur in long cable lengths. As for an antenna, you are about 34-40 miles from the Orlando transmitters. They lie at a compass heading of 330 degrees from your location. The transmitters are moderately strong in your area, so you don't need a huge antenna: I would recommend a Winegard HD-7694P or an Antennacraft HBU-33 mounted on your roof: you'll see everything from Orlando without any problem at all.

[gpmuro]

Those are directional antennas. Wouldn't a multi be more versatile?

Thanks

[tigerbangs]

Multi-directional and omnidirectional antennas are really a gimmick: they can't be relied on work at distances of more than a few miles from the transmitters: you are in a near-fringe area, and you will miss some of your most important stations if you use such an antenna. While you may see a lot of other stations on your TVFool.com report, for all practical purposes, those stations are low-powered religious, shopping and foreign-language stations that are of little interest to most viewers. Your primary concern is getting the best signal that you can get from the Orlando stations, and the antenna that I recommended , or the Winegard HD-7080P, which will also do FM, would be your best choice.

[gpmuro]

There is one channel about 27 miles from me. (56.1) 263^
It is about 70 degrees from the Orlando towers. 326^
Will I pick up that station if I direct my antenna at the Orlando towers?

Thanks

[tigerbangs]

WDPX should come in without much trouble at all with that antenna.

[gpmuro]

Good Morning.

Thanks for the antenna recommendations.
I am thinking of getting the HD7694P.
I was wondering if there is anything comperable
that is less obvious on the roof?

Thanks

[tigerbangs]

The HD-7694P would be my first choice: it's pretty inconspicuous when mounted on a roof: far less obvious than a satellite dish.