Installing bat-wing antenna

[Vienna700]

I own a 21' 1981 Sunline that has never worn a TV antenna. I have decided it's about time I invested in this modern day device LOL! Any suggestions on what to buy in the line of bat-wing antennas and hints on installation. My son-in-law will install it - he installs phone systems for a living and is experienced at getting between the walls. Someone suggested my roof may not be able to handle it - is that a possibility? Please tell me exactly what I need in an amplified system. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

[Sunline Fan]

At this point, I would suggest NOT installing one. I keep hearing rumors about some day all TV going to HD, and all TV's/hardware would be obsolete. If that does happen in the next couple years, the antenna would be of no use, unless something is made so that could work. My suggestion would be to carry some rabbit ears or something like that. If you really wanted, you could install a satellite dish on top, but that is a lot more expensive.

Jon

[MikeM]

Actually people are mistaken that the antenna needs changing.

The broadcast digital signals are still using uhf or vhf.

What is needed is a digital tuner for the tv. You can either buy a separate tuner or a new tv with one built in.

I have been using 20 year old rabbit ears with my digital tuner and it works great.

I bought a usb hdtv tuner for my laptop and used the Sunline Winegard antenna for testing.

Works great. Better reception on the digital channels than the old analog.

With analog tv you typically have a bad picture, ghosting, etc if you are in a fringe area. Digital usualy is great or nothing. Well, if you are on the edge of reception you will get picture freezing, pixelation, etc.

I bought a very portable phased array satellite kit for my rv but I have not subscribed yet as I am thinking broadcast digital will probably be good enough for me. http://www.satcomweb.com/passportline.htm

Now if you are way out in the boonies you will need satellite but you still will need line of sight typically to the S.

The laptop usb tuner works great for a bedroom tv. Plus it has DVR capability. Only $125 if you already have a good laptop. There is a minimum cpu speed required.

mike




mike

[PTHutch]

Mike:

What usb hdtv tuner did you get for you laptop?


Vianna700:

Suneline fan is correct wrt change over to digital TVs. As I remember it, TV manufactures will stop making analog TVs in September 2007. And in 2010 analog signals will stop being transmitted.

However, Mike is also correct, the change to all digital won't require a change of the antena.
For example Wingard makes a Digital HD Reciever now that works with their antenna and allows the reception of digital signals.
As far as details on installation on your specific trailer I can't help.
But for the a specific antenna to consider, Wingard has the Sensar II Antenna and provides a manual / installation instructions on line that may give you some insight to installation.
I'm sure you could always try to contact Wingard directly to see if they have any recommendations or advice.

Hutch

[MikeM]

Hi Hutch

I purchased a Pinnacle PCTV HD Pro Stick. Bought it at Best Buy

http://www.pinnaclesys.com/PublicSit...+Pro+Stick.htm

At first I was having some problems because the program was saying my processor was not running fast enough to display HD.

Finally it hit me. The power management on my xp laptop was slowing down my processor when I was not plugged into AC.

I adjusted my settings and it works great for me.

mike

[PTHutch]

Hi Mike,

Thanks - I was thinking about purchasing the Wingard Digital HD Receiver. This gives me something else to look at and consider.

Hutch