An 11-Step Guide to Installing an HDTV Antenna

  Indoor or outdoor HDTV antenna?

  Inexpensive indoor HDTV antennas can pick up HD signals if you happen to live close enough to the broadcast tower.

  If you don’t know where the nearest broadcast tower is located, it’s a good idea to try using an indoor antenna first, since it’s cheaper and easier. If the indoor HDTV antenna doesn’t work, you can return it and put the money toward a rooftop model.

  Keep in mind, an outdoor antenna requires you to get onto your roof for installation. This is potentially dangerous, so do not make any rooftop modifications unless you are familiar with this kind of work.

  When in doubt, call a professional.

  Tools and materials needed to install an HDTV antennaHDTV with a built-in digital tuner72-ohm all-weather coaxial cableGrounding wireHD antenna with mounting hardwareCoaxial cable grounding block and grounding strap (if needed)Power drillAdjustable wrenchScrewdriversRoofing screwsSilicone caulkNail gunU-clamp nails

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  Step 1: First, check the TV

  If you have an existing antenna on your roof, first try connecting it to your HDTV to see if you can pick up any channels.

  Step 2: Choosing the Right HDTV antenna

  There are plenty of HDTV antennas on the market to choose from, and this can be an intimidating process. Rather than get stressed out, visit?Antennaweb.org?and input your address to find out where the nearest broadcast tower is and what types of antennas work best in your area.

  Step 3: Preparing for installation

  On Antennaweb.org, you will be given a number of different channels and their compass headings. Use a compass to find out which direction your antenna should face and point it there.

  Step 4: Install the mounting bracket

  Follow the instructions that came with your mounting kit and secure the mounting bracket to the roof. Secure the bracket to the roof using roofing screws and apply silicone caulk around the screws to seal them against water penetration.

  Step 5: Assemble the antenna

  Depending on the type of antenna you purchase, you may have to assemble it—or it may come in one solid piece.

  Step 6: Attach the Antenna Pole

  Loosen the bolts on the mounting bracket’s sleeve and slide the pole in until it reaches the bottom of the sleeve. Tighten the bolts so the pole is held securely in place.

  Step 7: Place the Antenna on the Pole

  Loosen the bolts on the sleeve of the antenna. Slide the sleeve over the pole until the top meets the sleeve. Rotate the antenna so it is facing the general direction of the broadcast tower. Leave the bolts loose for the time being, since you may have to adjust the antenna’s direction.

  Step 8: Run a Temporary Cable Line

  Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the cable output terminal on the antenna and then run the cable line to your HDTV. Do not secure the cable. Connect the other end of the cable line to the coaxial input on the back of the HDTV and turn the TV on.

  Tune to your local channels as listed on the Antennaweb.org website to check for the HD signal. You may need to have someone watch the TV while you adjust the antenna on the rooftop.

  Step 9: Secure Everything

  Once you find the ideal position for the HD antenna, secure the antenna in place on the pole by tightening the sleeve bolts and disconnect the temporary cable from the HDTV. Run the coaxial cable and grounding wire across your roof, securing them along the way using a nail gun and insulated U-clamp nails.

  Step 10: Grounding the InstallationDrill a hole through the siding of the house for the cable to enter the interior of the home. Secure the coaxial cable coming from the antenna to one end of the grounding block.Secure another length of coaxial cable to the other end of the grounding block and run the other end of this cable through the hole and into the home.Connect one end of the coaxial cable’s grounding wire to the antenna’s housing and the other end to the grounding block.Connect another grounding wire to the grounding block and run this wire to either a cold water pipe on the inside of the home or install a grounding rod in your yard and connect it.Secure the grounding block to the side of the house. Seal up the hole with silicone caulk.Step 11: Reconnect the Cable to the HDTV

  Run the coaxial cable to the HDTV, and connect it to one of the TV’s coaxial inputs. Turn the TV back on and double-check your HD channels.

  Updated from an earlier version by?Dave Donovan.

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