Difference in Digital & Analogue Antenna?

Question

Hi
Can anybody tell me if there is a difference in the type of roof antennas & coax cable available
I have an old Antenna (about 20 yrs old) ..I get the odd distortion and losing Channnel 5 occasionally & i have been told by one aerial fitter that i need a new digital antenna as the one i have is obsolite
Could this be right

Answer 1

there is no difference between a digital aerial and analogue aerial . But there ARE different aerials for different channels. the basic types of aerial are low . mid , high and broadband

they are lablled A, B. CD and W respectively . Sometimes the digital channels used are similar to the analogue ones so the same aerial can be used . It sounds like in your area the aerial fitter knows that the digital uses different channels that is why he recommends a change . There are websites which can tell you what type of aerial is required. You need to get the correct one for the future as in some areas the channels will be changed again after the analogue signal is switched off!

Answer 2

From your description of your present ariel, I can confirm that it will NOT be suitable for digital receiving. You will have to fit a new modern type which allows for better reception, plus, the older ariel is out of align quite a bit, if your present service is poor, and whilst analogue has a wide pattern of a signal, the digital is narrow and requires exacting position to receive the signal.

The analogue signal is like a torch beam, spreading out from the main transmitter, whereas the digital signal is like a lazer beam, so precise setting of the new ariel is required. A new ariel, pole, fittings and time, should cost below £100, and the new ariel is vital to receive digital signal. The coax cable you have at the minute is old and possibly needs replacing but this should be easily, quickly and cost effective if doing it at the same time as your new ariel.

Answer 3

you can buy it from over here

SLx 27884D 48 Element Digital TV Aerial

Receives all available digital and analogue TV signals

Suitable for all signal strength areas

Suitable for outdoor or loft installation

CAI Benchmarked for digital TV - Standard 2

Answer 4

Before you commit to a new antenna, I'd try a booster. In my area, I've used a paper clip as an antenna.



http://cgi.ebay.com/TV-ANTENNA-SIGNAL-BOOSTER-AMPLIFIER-HDTV-UHF-VHF-CABLE-/220695614993?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item33627bd611

Answer 5

get a digital antenna there about 60 bucks on ebay with built in rotor there great!!!!!!!!!! heres the link too the one i bought i love it!!! http://cgi.ebay.com/DIGITAL-TV-ANTENNA-BOX-REMOTE-ROTOR-HDTV-DTV-HD-INDOOR-/160499048403?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item255e7d1fd3