Which TV cable is better. Choosing a TV cable for modern TV broadcasting

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Why the signal jumps has already been mentioned in order to avoid some problems when receiving digital television it is better to use a high-quality antenna when installing the antenna tv cable, which one is better to choose and why I will try to explain.

Cable device

I usually work with SAT 50 cable, and to make it less clear why I prefer it, and which of the characteristics are most important, let's look at the coaxial cable design. The figure above shows what it consists of.

1. Outer shell. Durability depends on its quality.
2. Braid. The most important parameter... Outer conductor. The resistance, the quality of the shielding, that is, the immunity from external electromagnetic interference, depends on the density of the weaving and the material.
3. Foil. Internal screen.
4. Dielectric. The most important parameter. The characteristic impedance and signal attenuation depend on the material and quality.
5. Central vein. Inner conductor. The signal transmission distance and bending radius depend on the material.

It used to be accepted that the black wire is for outdoor installation, now this is no longer so critical, for example, the SAT 703 cable, having a white color, can be used for both indoor and outdoor work, and the strips on it serve for ease of wiring so as not to get confused when laying cables, where is cable TV, where is terrestrial, etc.

Still, I recommend that if you want to buy a durable wire, then take it with black insulation or look at the characteristics of the one you are interested in before purchasing. As already mentioned, I think the best - although SAT 50, the RG 6U with a black protective shell is not so bad.

The braid can be made of copper, aluminum or copper-plated conductors with different weaving density. How large quantity conductors contains a braid, the higher the protection against external interference. For example, TV cable RG 6 has 48, and SAT 703 has 64 conductors. It should also be noted that the copper braid provides better parameters, but its use increases the cost of the cable.

In front of the dielectric there is a layer of aluminum foil on a polyester substrate. The use of double shielding significantly improves the performance of the coaxial cable.

The center conductor can be made of copper or copper clad steel for increased strength.

The use of expanded polyethylene (PEE) as a dielectric reduces polarization losses and signal attenuation. When choosing a television cable, it is better to opt for just this.

Choosing a cable

The most widespread today, perhaps, is the RG-6U cable, with quite satisfactory characteristics. It can be purchased in many stores and is most often offered with an outer sheath. white and although the sellers assure that it can be used as a street one, it is better to look for it with black insulation. As a television, it is not the best, mainly due to a quick failure when used outdoors and a higher attenuation coefficient. So with a longer cable length, for high-quality TV signal reception, it is better to look for a better one.

The best in terms of price-quality characteristics, in my opinion, is the SAT 50 television cable, this is an analogue of the SAT 703 wire, having almost identical parameters, but SAT 50 is somewhat cheaper.

Feature Sat 703:

1. The central core diameter is 1.13 mm.
2. Cable thickness - 6.6 mm.
3. The minimum bending radius is 70 mm.
4. Maximum current - 8 A.
5. Frequency range from 5 to 2150 MHz.
6. Characteristic impedance - 75 Ohm.
7. Attenuation at 862 MHz is 18 dB / 100 m.
8. Shielding factor -> 80 dB.
9. The linear capacity is 52 pF / m.
10. Operating temperature range from -40 ° С to + 80 ° С.
11. The permissible operating humidity is 100%.
12. The minimum installation temperature is -5 ° C.
13. Service life - 15 years.

As already mentioned, these cables have almost the same parameters... The difference between them is in the thickness of the central core, for sat 50 it is 0.02 mm thinner and has an aluminum braid instead of a copper-plated one.

To connect your TV to a satellite dish, there is a special antenna cable... When it is correctly selected and connected correctly, you can enjoy a clear picture while watching your favorite TV shows, and the amount of interference is minimized. We will talk about some of the nuances of choosing an antenna cable in this article.

What do you need to know to choose an antenna cable?

An RF coaxial cable is used to connect the antenna to the TV. First of all, it is worth understanding how it works. This will help to determine the quality of the cable by the cut, and not take the word of the seller in the store.

Conductor. At the very "heart" of the cable there is a conductor, which is responsible for signal transmission. Most often, it is copper, but there are cables with a steel copper-plated rod.

Insulation. A kind of layer between the inner and outer conductors. Consists of plastic, usually white.

Outer conductor. Usually consists of a shield and braid. The screen is made of metal foil, and the braid is made of metal conductors intertwined. The purpose of this layer of the cable is to protect the signal from external interference such as transformers and home cordless phones.

Protective shell. As the name implies, it protects the cable from mechanical damage.

As you can see, there is nothing complicated in the cable device. And now we will discuss in detail what you should pay attention to when choosing.

Copper or copper-plated steel in the antenna cable for the TV. What's better?

There is a lot of controversy about which core material - copper or copper-plated steel - is better. It is generally accepted that copper is the best guide and in most cases this is true. But there are also some nuances.

If the antenna cable is needed for digital or terrestrial television, then the material of the bar does not really matter. The fact is that in this case the signal passes along the surface of the rod, and it does not matter whether it is completely copper, or only copper-plated along the surface.

Antenna cable braid

It is advisable to choose a copper-braided cable. And here it is worth paying attention to its density - the thicker it is, the less signals from the outside will penetrate and create interference.

The presence of metal foil and winding is the main indicator of the quality of the cable. Depends on this, the amount of interference and the clarity of the signal. It is better not to save money and buy a cable with double screen- with foil and wrapping. This way you will not be disappointed with the picture quality when watching TV.

Wave voltage of the antenna cable

It is advisable to choose an antenna cable with a wave voltage of 75 ohms. If you buy a cable with a higher or lower voltage, it can lead to interference and other technical problems.

Pay attention to the thickness of the cable. The thicker it is (at least 6 mm in diameter), the better, since there will be less signal loss in it. Though thin cables more convenient to install and differ better flexibility, the image quality suffers with them. Plus, they break and damage easily.

The myth of color differences in antenna cables

There is an opinion that the white cable is for indoor use, and the black one is for outdoor use. However, in reality, there is no such clear distinction. The color should be chosen solely based on your taste preferences, and the purpose of the cable should be checked with the seller or looked at the marking.

A cable intended for outdoor use must have a protective carbon layer - it will protect the cable from adverse environmental conditions and extend its service life.

How do I find the right cable?

So, here we have decided on the main selection criteria. But how to find the one required cable, and not be fooled by an ignorant salesperson?

To avoid such troubles and unnecessary hassle, as well as to feel more confident, you need to understand a little about the labeling.

The marking is applied directly to the cable. There, the manufacturer, the brand of the cable, the wave voltage, and the meter mark (with each meter changes by 1 unit) are indicated without fail. For clarity: the marking "CABLETECH RG 6U / 48 75 OHM 055M" means that the cable is from the manufacturer CABLETECH, its brand is 6U / 48, the wave voltage is 75 Ohm and the footage is 55 meters.

As already mentioned, the quality of the cable can be visually determined by the cut. Plus, a quality cable will be thick and stiff, so pay attention to that when buying. Try bending the cable, and if it does not work easily, that is in its favor.

Buyer's cheat sheet

Below we have listed several brands of antenna cables with good quality and specifications:

• RG 6U;
• SAT 50;
• SAT 703B;
• RG-6U + CU;
• DG 113.

Frequently asked questions about choosing an antenna cable

Which cable is better, domestic or foreign?

One cannot say anything categorically, however, it has been noticed in practice that foreign-made cables are better than domestic ones, even though they have aluminum or steel wire.

How long should I buy the cable?

Can I use a cable to connect multiple TVs?

Yes, for this you need a splitter - a splitter, or "crab" as it is popularly called. But in this case, it should be borne in mind that the more devices are connected to the antenna, the worse the signal will be, and regardless of whether the other devices are working.

So, when choosing a cable, take into account the peculiarities of your type of connection, the above tips and carefully look at the marking - then you will not be disappointed in your purchase.

To connect your TV to cable communication or antenna, you need to buy special cable, process its ends and put on special plugs. If all the preparatory moments for connecting the TV are carried out incorrectly, analog channels, like digital ones, will show a low-quality picture with a bad image and interference. This will happen because the antenna cable for the TV is losing signal somewhere or the installation was made with errors.

Choosing a TV cable

Select high-quality and necessary materials to connect a TV is the most important event. Even the most advanced and modern source signal and properly fitted plugs cannot guarantee a high quality picture if the wrong telecable is used. Therefore, the question arises of how to choose the right TV materials to connect.

How to choose an antenna cable for your TV?

Before you go to buy everything you need, you should understand the principle of operation of high-frequency current in the cable. In a home power grid, current flows in the wire across the entire cross section. The television signal flows through the antenna conductor in a completely different way. Everyone knows how water is squeezed out in a washing machine: the higher the speed, the stronger and faster, under the influence of centrifugal force, water is removed from the laundry. For example, you can also cite one of the moments of childhood, when we rode on a carousel, and how this force pressed us into the back of the chairs, pushing us out.

An antenna cable for a TV works in the same way, more precisely, the signal current that moves in it. The higher frequency signal, the closer to the surface of the cable it is distributed. If a current with a frequency of 1000 MHz is passed simultaneously through a 10 mm copper wire and a copper tube with a wall thickness of 1 mm, then the losses will be the same. Therefore, in military and space technologies for the production of antenna cables, thin layers of gold or silver are used, which prevent severe signal loss. This is a very expensive method; it is not used in domestic conditions.

Due to the fact that the TV signal in the cable is small, it is impossible to measure its frequency at home without expensive devices. Only after connecting the cable will it be possible to find out the quality of the transmitting signal.

Antenna cable for TV. Which one is better to choose?

Today, the electronic goods market offers various materials to connect to a signal source, the cost of which fluctuates in wide range... All of them differ from each other not only in price, but also in the quality of performance. The most popular and widespread is the coaxial antenna cable for TV, which is presented by different manufacturers and brands. Such a cable is successfully used to work with analog and digital television signals and even for high-frequency satellite antennas. The cable markings indicate the size of the signal loss.

Choosing the right material

What is the best TV antenna cable to buy? Experts advise when buying it to pay close attention to the markings on the surface of the cable. It should have a characteristic impedance of 75 ohms. All television devices are designed for such parameters.

The diameter of the cable sheath cannot be less than 6 mm. The core and braid must be copper. These are the characteristics of cables of SAT 703B and DG 113 brands. But the RG 6U brand has a steel central core, which is electroplated with copper, aluminum foil is used for the screen, and copper alloy is used for braiding. Such an antenna cable for a TV is a budget option. Thus, it becomes clear what material should be taken to connect to the signal source.

Connection process

You do not need to invite special workers to connect to the TV. Everything can be done on their own if you follow the recommendations.

The analog and digital signal in the cable is only thousandths of a volt, so connecting the antenna cable to the TV is not dangerous for humans. It can be easily cut, while the other end can be included in the device. It is also absolutely safe if there is a short circuit between the core and the screen film.

We install the plug on the cable

The plugs on sale can be of three types, depending on the diameter of the cable. Therefore, when buying this device, it is necessary to check that it fits the antenna wire. Most experts advise purchasing the F-plug as it matches the signals coming from analog and digital sources.

How to connect the antenna cable to the TV? This technology is very simple. First, you need to split the cable itself, wrap the screen film, you can not do this, but the plug is held tighter in the first case, and screw on the connector.

In order for everything to work out neatly, you should carefully cut the top layer of the cable with a clerical knife, being careful not to damage the screen film. The incision should be several centimeters long.

After the incision top part is folded back and cut off, as it is no longer needed. Foil and braid are wrapped back.

There is one secret that many do not know: aluminum foil from the inside is processed with a thin layer of plastic for strength, it is impossible to clean it. If you put a nozzle on it, then the contact will be very poor. To prevent this from happening, the folded foil (half of it) should be folded back. Thus, the conductive layer will be on the outside.

There are times when the diameter of the plug is larger than the wire. Therefore, how to make an antenna cable for a TV so that the attachment does not fall off and the signal quality is not disturbed? To do this, the end of the cable is wrapped with electrical tape, then the plug itself will not go anywhere.

Then the insulation of the core is removed, a nozzle is put on the foil or electrical tape, a part of the unnecessary core that exceeds 3 mm is bite off with pliers, and that's it - the cable for connecting to the TV is ready.

Sometimes the design of the TV or the location of it does not allow you to connect the antenna directly. In this case, 90 ° bent plugs are commercially available, which are perfect for any position.

Old types of attachments

Before the advent of all-metal plugs, nozzles of a different design were used. They didn't need soldering either, but they wore a little differently. First, the upper metal part was unscrewed from the plastic base. Then the main body was put on the antenna cable for the TV, the winding with the screen was cut and the rest of the plug was screwed on top.

If there are no attachments at hand

It often happens in life when you need to find something, but it is not. It happens that you urgently need to connect the TV to the antenna, but there is no plug at hand. Is it possible to get out of this situation? Of course you can, because the cable can be connected without a nozzle. To do this, remove the top cover of the cable 5 centimeters long, turn off the screen, remove the insulating material and bend the core into a loop. It is advisable to wrap the foil with electrical tape.

To prevent the wire from falling out of the socket, fix it with matches or toothpicks.

Bad signal

There are times when there is a sharp deterioration in the image quality of the picture. For this there may be different reasons, the most common of which is cable damage. How to fix an antenna cable for a TV if a break has been found? After all, here you cannot act as with an ordinary wire: twisted the gap together and insulated the place of twisting.

To get out of this situation, there are special metal connectors on sale that look like a plug that is connected to a TV. Having found the place of damage on the cable, it is divided into two parts. Each part is cleaned as described above (as when preparing the wire for putting on the nozzle). After preparing the parts of the cable, they are inserted into the connector and tightened with a special nut.

If there is not enough length

The extension of the wire takes place in the same way. Many found themselves in a situation when they moved furniture with a TV or outweighed it if it was wall-mounted, and now there is not enough cable to connect. Therefore, the question arises of how to lengthen the antenna cable for the TV.

In the same way, the connector is taken and the required length is built up. However, there are a couple of "buts" that you need to know:

1. When lengthening the cable, it is advisable to buy exactly the same brand of wire that is on this moment available. Never take a cable with a lesser marking. Otherwise, the signal quality will deteriorate.

2. When adding and connecting a TV cable, even if everything is done carefully, the image quality may drop somewhat. No matter how well the connectors are screwed on, a break in the solid core will still affect the signal in the worst side... But it also depends on the transmitting source: if it is strong enough, then a cable breakage and its subsequent connection will not affect the picture quality.

Connecting multiple television sets

Connecting multiple TVs to a network or antenna that carries an analog or digital signal is easy. The only thing that will need to be put on is not one plug, but several. For such a case, you can buy a special splitter, popularly called "crab" or "splitter".

This fixture has one antenna input and multiple outputs for other wires. In order for the "crab" to function properly, all of its outputs are connected to television devices. If there is a pair of outputs, then two devices are connected, if three - then to three TVs. There should be no free exits. If an unused connector remains, then a plug should be installed on it, but the signal quality will deteriorate. Therefore, it is necessary to purchase a "crab" with as many outputs as required to power the devices.

Experts emphasize that when the cable is connected through a “splitter”, the signal quality will still be lower, even if some TV does not work. This is due to the loss of current in the "crab" itself and in the additional wire. There is even a table like this:

Two TVs connected - signal loss - 30%.

If the incoming analog or digital signal is already weak, the image quality will drop sharply due to the connected crab. Thus, the more devices are connected, the worse the television picture will be. However, in cities where signal sources are located nearby, which in addition pass through special amplifiers, such problems practically do not happen. Residents of rural areas can face similar difficulties, and even then, if they still have not a satellite dish, but a simple analog antenna.

Amplifiers

If suddenly after connecting the "crab" the signal becomes worse, then you can put a special device in front of it - an amplifier television signal... Such a device is separately powered to electrical network... It should be placed as close to the antenna or TV as possible. There are models of such devices with several outputs. They are set if you want to connect a certain number of television sets.

Outcome

In conclusion, I would like to add that the knowledge of how to choose an antenna cable for a TV, and the ability to properly mount it are the most important points in connecting the antenna to the receiver. To do this, you should buy a good and high quality wire. Now in many houses and apartments they hide television cables in the wall, in a Western manner, with only a special socket for the antenna. And this is very good, since the cable is not conspicuous and is safe and sound without damage.

If this is not possible, then it is recommended to at least close the wire in a special plastic box. After all, if it is damaged, the image quality will drop. It is best to avoid this so that you do not pull a new cable or put in connectors, which can also affect the loss of signal.

To connect your TV to cable TV or an antenna, you need to purchase a special television cable and put F-plugs on its ends.

With an illiterate solution to this simple task, the TV set when receiving both analog and digital signal may be unstable or with poor quality images due to signal loss in the cable and its connections.

Choosing a TV cable

Even a great TV and properly dressed F-plug cable ends will not be able to provide high quality images on the screen when using a low-quality TV cable. And the question arises, which antenna cable is better for connecting a TV and by what criteria to choose it?

TV cable device

Let's consider how a modern television coaxial cable works using the example of a CAT-703 cable.

A copper, or steel, copper-coated conductor runs down the center of the entire length of the coaxial cable. This core is covered with a layer of insulating dielectric material. The insulation is covered with a shielding braid made of copper or aluminum foil, which acts as a second conductor. For protection against mechanical and climatic influences, the cable is covered with a sealed protective sheath.

In inexpensive cables, only aluminum braid is used, in budget cables - copper, and in expensive cables - aluminum and copper at the same time, as shown in the photo.

How current flows through the antenna cable

To consciously choose a good antenna cable, you need to imagine how high-frequency current flows. The current in the electrical network flows over the entire cross-section of the conductors.

The high-frequency current of a television signal flows according to a different law. Everyone knows how linen is wrung out in the centrifuge of a washing machine: the higher the revolutions, the stronger the centrifugal force acts on the water, and it is better removed from the linen, the linen becomes drier. On their own bodies, many in childhood experienced the action of centrifugal force while riding on merry-go-rounds.

The high-frequency current of the television signal flows in the same way in the antenna cable. The higher the frequency, the closer it flows to the surface of the conductor. The skin effect appears. If we take, for example, a copper wire with a diameter of 10 mm and a tube of the same diameter made of copper with a wall thickness of 1 mm, then a current with a frequency of 1000 MHz will flow through them with the same losses!

Therefore, in antenna cables used for military and space equipment, to reduce signal loss (attenuation), the central core and cable sheath is often covered with a thin layer of silver and even gold. This is a very expensive pleasure, and such cables are not used in everyday life.

Due to the small size of the television signal in the antenna cable and its high frequency it is not possible to determine its presence in the cable, and even more so to carry out measurements at home without specialized expensive devices. Only connecting the antenna cable to the TV will allow you to determine the presence and quality of the TV signal.

TV cable marking

Antenna coaxial cables are the most widely used on the market. different manufacturers with a characteristic impedance of 75 Ohm brands RG 6U, SAT 50, SAT 703B and DG 113, which can be successfully used to receive analog and digital television signals up to transmission from satellite dish frequency up to 2.15 GHz. The brands are listed in ascending order of the quality of the antenna cable - reducing signal loss (attenuation) during transmission. Marking (designation) must be applied to the sheath of the antenna cable along its entire length every meter with a digital meter mark.

This antenna cable mark indicates the following:

• CABLETECH is a manufacturing company CABLETECH (China).
• RG 6U / 48 - cable brand.
• HIGH QUALITY COAXIAL CABLE - high quality coaxial cable.
• 75 OHM - characteristic impedance 75 Ohm.
• 055M - meter mark, with each meter the mark changes by 1.

How to choose an antenna TV cable

The antenna cable sheath must be marked as shown above. The antenna cable must have a wave impedance of 75 ohms (all televisions and switching devices - amplifiers, splitters are designed for this resistance). The outer diameter of the antenna cable sheath must be at least 6 mm. Center conductor and braided shield made of electrical copper. These requirements are met by antenna cables of the SAT 703B and DG 113 brands. In the RG 6U cable, the central conductor is steel, galvanized with copper, a shield made of aluminum foil and a braid made of copper alloy. a budget option.

It is not possible to describe all existing television antenna cables, but the information provided is quite enough for everyone to make their own choice.

How to install the antenna plug to the cable

There is no need to invite specialists in order to connect the TV to the antenna cable. Anyone can do this job home master independently with the help of an improvised tool, if you follow the instructions below.

The voltage of an analog or digital television signal in an antenna cable is millionths of a volt, therefore connected to cable network or other televisions, the aerial cable is not dangerous to humans. You can safely cut the cable without disconnecting its other end from the splitter or TV. Not dangerous, and when cutting the cable, accidental short circuit between center conductor and braided shield.

How to install an F-plug to the antenna cable

The plugs are sold in three sizes for different antenna cable diameters. When purchasing, make sure that the F-plug matches your TV aerial cable. This type of plug is suitable for analogue, digital TV signal and satellite antenna signal.

You can screw the F-plug onto the cable by cutting it in two ways, with the twist of the shielding braid, in the diagram on the left side, and without wrapping it, in the diagram on the right, in accordance with the breakdown diagram below.

The F-plug will hold more reliably in the event of a twist of the shielding braid, but if you cannot wind it, then you can use the second method.

To cut the TV cable, not pressing the knife hard so as not to damage the shielding braid of the antenna cable, its outer sheath is cut along a few centimeters.

After the cut of the shell, it is folded to the side and cut off at the beginning of the cut.

Unfastened aluminum foil and copper braid. The shield in the antenna cables comes in three versions: one copper braid, aluminum foil and a copper braid on top of it (as in my case), only aluminum foil.

Many do not know that to impart mechanical strength the foil is coated on the inside with polyethylene. It is impossible to clean the plastic. If you screw the plug onto inner side foil of the antenna cable, there will be no contact, or it will be very poor. To prevent this from happening, you need to bend half of the folded foil back, then the conductive side will be outside.

There are situations when the diameter of the hole of the female thread of the F plug is larger than the diameter of the antenna cable. In this case, before wrapping the foil, wind several layers of insulating tape on the antenna cable to adjust the size of the cable. Then do everything as described. The insulation is removed from the central core using the technology described in the article "Preparing wires for installation".

The F plug "wrapping on the cable" is screwed onto the foil.

The central core of the antenna cable is bite off so that about 2-3 mm remains.

The second half of the plug is screwed on until it stops, and the F-plug is ready for use.

There are times when, after inserting the antenna plug into the TV socket, the cable has to be bent at right angles or it is impossible to install the TV close to the wall due to the interfering antenna cable. In this case, you can use the F-socket - angle plug.

The difference between the two described plugs is only in their shape. The technology for installing straight and angled plugs on the TV cable is the same.

How to install an old plug on the antenna cable

Before the advent of antenna F-plugs, plugs of a different design were used, which also did not require soldering, but were connected to the antenna cable according to their own technology.

Before proceeding with the installation of the plug on the antenna cable, you need to hold it by the metal part and unscrew it by turning it counterclockwise, plastic case... Then put the body on the cable, so as not to forget.

The next step is to prepare the antenna cable for installation. To do this, with a knife blade, you need to cut through its outer shell to a length of about a centimeter with light pressure. Then remove the casing and cut the shielding braid by 5 mm. Remove five millimeters of insulation from the center conductor. The antenna cable is now ready to be plugged into the plug.

When threading the cable into the plug, it is necessary to exclude the contact of the conductors of the braid of the fixing of the central core. Pliers crimp the antenna plug petals around the shielding winding. A lot of effort should not be made. The main thing is to have reliable contact.

The last step is to screw the plastic onto the metal part of the plug and insert the plug into the TV socket.

Soviet-era antenna plugs are gradually becoming a thing of the past, but millions more TVs are connected using them. If you replace the cable or bad contact in the plug, it becomes necessary to re-solder it.

Soviet plugs were tinned according to the requirements of GOST. According to these requirements, the solderability period of the tinned contacts was at least six months, so after a year it was often almost impossible to solder the cable conductors to the terminals. The solder rolled off and the surface of the plug turned black.

To obtain a reliable connection, you need to clean the soldering points to a shine of brass. First, clean the end of the central contact with a flat needle file, and then, with the sharp end of the file, as far as possible, turning it, clean the hole in the central contact. Then strip the terminals for soldering the cable screen sandpaper or with a file and tinned them.

The next step is to cut and prepare the end of the antenna cable for soldering. The plastic part of the plug is put on immediately. Further, along the length of the cable is cut and removed to a length of about three centimeters according to the technology described above. The shielding braid is untwisted, divided into two parts and the conductors are twisted. The insulation is removed from the central core so that it remains visible two millimeters.

Before threading the antenna cable into the plug, its central core is shortened by a few millimeters to make it easier to thread the shielding wires. The contact petals are slightly bent to the sides. Shielding conductors are threaded through the holes in the contact lugs until they stop, and the central core is threaded into the central contact of the plug. The petals are tightly pressed against the cable.

Shielding conductors in the place of passage through the holes of the petals are developed, and soldering is performed. The solder layer should be small, otherwise the plastic sleeve of the plug may not fit. If the soldering is thick, then the excess solder can be removed during assembly with sandpaper or a file. The excess length of the braid is cut off with pliers, but you can not cut it.

Before soldering the central core, you need to hold the plug by the metal part and pull firmly on the cable. This is necessary to eliminate the load on the central core if someone decides to remove the plug from the TV connector by the cable. Next, the central core of the cable is soldered from the outside and cut off. If solder icicles are obtained during soldering, you must cut them off with a knife blade or grind them off with a file.

It remains to check whether the tab of the retainer is bent enough, and put a plastic cartridge on the metal part of the antenna plug until the retainer clicks into place.

Where to insert the antenna cable on the TV

After the connector is installed on the cable, it can be connected to the TV. The jack for connecting the TV to an antenna or cable network is usually located on the back of the TV and is marked next to it in the form of the abbreviated inscription "ANT".

In the photo on the right side of it you can see the socket for connecting the antenna. The socket is special, standard and differs from all other connectors and sockets available on the commutation panel. Therefore, it is physically impossible to insert the antenna plug into another socket by mistake. Any of the connectors, the installation of which is discussed in the article above, is well inserted into the TV jack.

V modern TVs to receive a television signal, two connectors are installed for the possibility of connecting an antenna (cable TV) and a satellite antenna (receiver).

One, denoted RF (ANT 1 IN), is designed to connect an antenna or cable network, this is installed on all TV models, both old and modern. The second began to be installed recently, LNB (ANT 2 IN with external thread) is designed to connect a satellite dish.

If the TV supports the DVB-S2 standard, then the satellite dish can be connected without a receiver, directly to the LNB connector. To receive digital television channels from a television tower to an individual antenna, the television must support the DVB-T2 standard. Therefore, when buying a TV, you must pay Special attention on the list of broadcasting standards that it supports.

To receive a signal from a specified connector in the TV Menu, you need to select the signal source Antenna or Satellite TV and perform automatic or manual setting channels.

How to connect an antenna cable to a TV without a plug

In life, there are situations that you urgently need to connect an antenna cable to the TV, but there is no plug or soldering iron at hand. You can temporarily connect the antenna cable without a plug. To do this, you must first remove the upper sheath to a length of 5 cm, develop and unscrew the shielding braid, remove the insulation from the central core of the cable and bend the core itself into a loop. The width of the tab should be slightly larger than the hole in the center slot of the TV connector.

If the connector on the TV is as in the photo, then an insulating tube must be put on the center contact. Next, a loop is inserted into the center contact, and the shielding braid is tucked into the connector with a screwdriver blade. The main thing is to prevent the wires of the shielding braid from touching the central core of the cable.

If the braid is aluminum, then you can insert it into the TV connector and into free place stuff thin copper wires taken from any stranded copper wire... To prevent the wire from falling out of the TV connector, you can fix it with several toothpicks or matches. Such an improvised connector will serve quite reliably.

How to connect an antenna cable to a crab without a plug

The cable is prepared in the same way as for putting on the F-plug, the central core is inserted into the F-connector of the crab, and the screen is put on the protruding part of the crab connector and fixed with any wire or clamp. As a last resort, you can fix the cable by tightly winding several layers of electrical tape. It will work just as well as with an F-connection.

If you use a clamp with a screw crimping device, then the quality and reliability of the connection will be no worse than with the F-connector.

Which antenna plug is better

The answer is clear: the best of the three TV coaxial cable plugs reviewed is the F plug. It is easy to notice in the photographs above without even having any special knowledge.

As you can see, the antenna plug of the old design and the Soviet antenna plug have a small section of the central core of the cable, which is not covered with a shielding braid. This violates the uniformity of the wave impedance, which leads to insignificant losses of the television signal.

The F-connector does not have an exposed antenna cable center conductor. Another advantage of the antenna F-connector is the ease of installation. Having minimal set standard tool, without skill, almost anyone can correctly put the antenna F-plug on the cable.

How to connect multiple TVs
to the cable network or antenna

Connecting several TVs to a cable network or antenna that transmits an analog or digital TV signal is no more difficult than one, unless you have to put more than one F-plug on the cable, but several. For this, there are TV signal splitters, popularly called "crab", they are also called "splitter", "splitter" or "divider".

The crab has one connector for connecting a signal from an antenna or a splitter at the entrance, marked IN (input), and several connectors for connecting TVs, marked OUT (output). If there is no marking, then usually the entrance is at the crab on one side of the body, and the outputs in a row are on the opposite. All outputs for the crab to work properly must be connected to TVs.

If there are two outputs, then to two TVs, if there are three outputs, then to three, and so on. There should be no free connectors on the crab. If an unconnected output remains, then it must be loaded with a 75 Ohm resistor. Or, as they say, put a plug. But at the same time, a part of the useful signal will be lost; it is better to use a crab, in which the number of taps is equal to the number of connected TVs.

The design of the splitter is a thin-walled case made of silumin or brass, in which, at the same time, connectors for connecting F-plugs are made. The divider circuit is usually transformer, one turn of enameled wire with a diameter of 0.2-0.4 mm, threaded through ferrite rings or tubes. Installation of transformers is carried out by means of a hinged method. The body is sealed with a metal cover and sealed or fixed with glue.

Lugs are provided for attaching the crab to the wall. The case also has a thread with a screw for grounding, although it is not clear where to get the ground wire in the vast majority of apartments. Usually they are not grounded, therefore, on some channels, interference from wires of electrical wiring, the Internet, a telephone, passing next to a television cable, is possible. Whenever possible, such proximity should be avoided when laying the cable. For a more detailed acquaintance with the design and electrical circuit crab, you can visit the page "How to connect an antenna television amplifier to the power supply".

If there is a desire, then a crab that is not inferior in technical parameters expensive samples well-known firms, you can do it yourself.

When connecting TVs through a crab, the level of the TV signal reaching each TV connected to it, regardless of whether the TV is working or not, will decrease due to losses in the crab and the additional cable length. When two TVs are connected - by 30%, three - by 60%, four - by 90%, and if the analog or digital TV signal coming to the crab is already weak, then the image quality on all connected TVs can be significantly reduced. Usually the signal in cable TV is strong enough, and its level is sufficient for normal work all TVs connected to the crab.

How to connect the antenna cable
to the television signal highway at the entrance of the house

Usually, a television cable is laid along the roof of the house and then, after amplification with a trunk amplifier, branches out along the entrances of the house. Since there are different packages of television programs, at the entrance to the entrance, the cable is branched using a crab filter, which is a crab with two outputs. From one output the signal comes out unchanged, and from the second output it is cut by a high-frequency filter. Thus, the ability to watch everything is limited. TV channels for those who buy cheaper social packages. Therefore, two cables run down the entrances.

If you inspect the walls in your entrance, you will surely find a metal box on each floor, from which television antenna cables go to the apartments. V modern houses boxes are no longer installed, but everything is placed in wall cabinets, in which case you will see a metal door with a lock. Subscriber taps of the TV signal are placed in these boxes. If you remove the lid from the box or open the cabinet door, you will see something like this. In the photo on the left, a coupler for subscribers complete package TV programs, and on the right for subscribers of the social package.

The taps must be secured and grounded by rules, but cable men do not do this to simplify the work. Perhaps this is better, because if the grounding is not of good quality, then such grounding can create interference.

Taps installed in junction boxes do not fundamentally differ from crabs for connecting several TVs, but they work a little differently. One F connector is used to connect the cable coming from the IN line. The second OUT is used to transmit the signal to the next coupler on the floor below. The rest of the F connectors are TAP (TAP), there can be from one to five, are intended for connecting subscribers, that is, for connecting television cables going to apartments.

There should be no unconnected subscriber connectors. In case of disconnection of one subscriber, for example for non-payment, it is allowed to install an F-connector with a load resistance of 75 Ohm instead of a cable. If you need to connect a new subscriber to a cable television network, then a splitter for two subscribers, as in this example, is replaced by a three-connector.

Thus, to connect the TV to a cable network, a piece of a television cable of the required length with antenna F-connectors installed at the ends is enough. One F-connector of the antenna cable is connected to the subscriber coupler in the entrance, and the second to the TV.

What is the difference between a crab and a coupler

In a crab, the power of the incoming TV signal is usually divided into equal parts between all connected TVs. Unlike a crab, in a coupler, subscribers are given only a small part of the signal power supplied to the input, about 6 dB.

To ensure a sufficient level of the television signal arriving at the subscribers, the signal to the input of the coupler is fed from the main power amplifier, depending on the number of connected subscribers. Collectively, all taps installed in one entryway represent a crab with multiple branches.

TV signal amplifier

If, after installing the crab, the image becomes unsatisfactory, then you will have to additionally put a TV amplifier in front of it. The amplifier is arranged in the same way as the crab, but in its case there are additionally installed active elements (transistors or microcircuit) that amplify the video signal. The TV amplifier will additionally require a mains supply voltage, and this must be taken into account when choosing a place for its installation.

The TV amplifier should be installed as close as possible to the TV signal source, since the amplifier amplifies noise along with the useful TV signal. The photo shows the TERRA HA123 television amplifier, designed for operation in a home television network, having one output, with the ability to adjust the gain from 8 to 28 dB. If possible, then perfect option- place the amplifier directly in the box of the main signal splitter for apartments.

If the televisions are located not far from the television amplifier, then it is more expedient to install only one television signal amplifier with several outputs instead of the television amplifier and the crab. For example, a television amplifier-splitter model Televes 5523 (Spain), which has a gain of 16 dB and five outputs, which makes it possible to connect up to 5 TVs to it.

If the signal is taken from an individual antenna, then there are amplifiers that are designed to be installed directly on the antenna instead of a matching loop. Antenna amplifiers provide high-quality reception at a distance from the transmitting antenna up to 100 km.

The antenna amplifier, depending on the signal level at the antenna installation point, must be selected according to the gain for each specific case. The supply voltage for these amplifiers is supplied via a coaxial cable.

Anti-interference
installation of a ferrite ring on the antenna cable

Sometimes, after connecting to cable TV using a crab of several TVs, some channels may experience interference in the form of chaotic white or black dots, traveling waves or a grid across the screen. This occurs when a high-frequency signal of interference from the local oscillator, parallel connected TVs or other sources of interference reaches the antenna input of the TV. The penetration of interference from TVs connected in neighboring apartments is not excluded. The level of this kind of interference can be significantly reduced or even eliminated completely by installing a ferrite ring on the cable.

Interference suppression efficiency ferrite filter depends on the cross-sectional area of ​​the ring: the larger its area, the greater the inductance of the made choke will be. The ferrite ring put on the antenna cable forms a choke and, together with the antenna cable's capacitance per unit length, forms a U-shaped high-frequency filter. The maximum suppression of interference will be achieved when two rings are installed on the antenna cable at its ends.

Ferrite rings are sold in stores and are of two types: solid and consisting of two halves, pressed into plastic case with latches. But you can do without extra costs. If you look closely at the interface wires going from the system side of the computer to the printer, scanner, monitor and other peripheral equipment then you can see the thickening of the cylindrical cables. These are ferrite filters.

Surely you have an old CRT monitor or you have unnecessary interface cables. It is enough to cut the plastic with a knife, remove the ferrite ring and install it on the antenna cable. After installing the ferrite bead, TV clutter will no longer interfere with TV viewing.

If you are engaged in repairing, among other things, the question of buying a TV cable arises and, of course, the sacred "which TV cable is better?" On sale there is a carriage and a small cart of types of antenna wires, which differ in marking, name, thickness, characteristics, color, etc. Not to mention the fact that for different types of television "own" cables are offered.

Let's be honest, this abundance sometimes baffles even specialists. Therefore, we want to tell you which cable is needed to connect the TV, and how to check if the wizard offers the right type for installation.

The structure of a television cable

The cables are arranged, in general, the same. There is a main central core or inner conductor. The core is hidden in an insulating sheath, over which a screen and braid are laid. And the protective shell completes everything.

Note! A cable of this structure is also called coaxial. Thus, the cable for the TV is coaxial.

The inner conductor carries the signal in all types of television and power for the converter in satellite TV. Therefore, it is made of copper or copper-plated steel. That is, the vein itself is steel, and on top there is a thin layer of copper, sort of like they dipped steel wires into a bath with molten copper. A pure copper core is needed only for the satellite, for the rest, a steel core with copper plating works great. Plus, the price of the cable is lower, and the quality is high.

The screen and braid play the role of protection against various interference. The better they are made, the better the TV signal will be. The screen is made of aluminum foil and / or aluminum lavsan (screen), the braid is made of aluminum, copper or tinned copper wire. The average protection index or shielding factor is 60-80 dB, the high one starts from 90 dB.

An internal plastic dielectric securely hides the center core, protecting it from damage. And also insulates from contact with the screen and braid. The outer sheath made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) covers the entire cable filling, protecting it from damage and external impact. For example, from water, dust, temperature changes and other troubles. Indeed, cables are often laid not only indoors, but also outdoors.

Brands and characteristics of the antenna cable for the TV

Coaxial antenna cable is produced under different brands, of which the most commonly used: SAT 50, SAT 703, RG 6, RG 59, DG 113, RK 75. All of them have a wave impedance of 75 ohms and are suitable for connecting one or more televisions. Now let's talk about each species in more detail.

RG-6 cable

The brand is Russian, but made in China. The central core is copper or steel with copper plating, 1.0 mm thick, hidden in a sheath made of foamed polyethylene. The cable has a foil shield, copper or aluminum braid and a protective PVC jacket. The total thickness of the wire is 6-6.8 mm. Most often, the RG 6 brand is taken for cable, conventional and digital TV. This is the most inexpensive variety with a price per meter from 10 rubles.

Cable RK 75

An analogue of RG-6 in terms of characteristics, it is produced in Russia. Central copper conductor, thickness 1.0 mm, PE dielectric, copper braid or double shield made of aluminum lavsan and tinned copper (foil and braid). A single-screen cable can be used for terrestrial and cable TV, with a double screen - also for a satellite dish inside the building.

RG 59 cable

More thin version RG-6 with a central core thickness of 0.5-0.58 mm and an outer diameter of 5.4-6.0mm. Suitable for transmitting all types of signals, including satellite, but over a distance of up to 190 m. Due to the thinness of the main conductor, the signal in the cable is attenuated by 50% more, and the loss of image quality increases with each meter.

Attention! RG 59 and other analogs with a half-millimeter core are used for one TV receiver. A fragile and thin conductor is more difficult to fix in sockets and connectors; it breaks easily with inaccurate laying and strong bends of the wire. And high attenuation "brutally" attenuates the signal when connected in series.

SAT 50 cable

Manufacturer - Italian company Cavel. Central copper core 1.0 mm, reinforced shield, consists of two layers of foil and copper-tin braiding, shielding factor from 60 dB. Conductor sheath is made of PEG dielectric, outer PVC, cable diameter 6.6 mm, kg. It can transmit all types of TV signals - air, cable, digital and satellite. Price per meter from 30 rubles.

SAT 703 cable

Also products under the Cavel brand. Copper center conductor, 1.13 mm thick. The screen is made of two layers of aluminum-plastic foil and copper-tin braiding, the screening factor is from 80 dB, the shell is made of PEG-dielectric and PVC, the total thickness is 6.6 mm. It transmits all TV signals with high quality and is recommended for satellite TV, including for laying on the street. The price of a meter is from 40 rubles.

DG 113 cable

Manufacturer Cavel, technical indicators are similar to the SAT 703 brand, but the screening factor of the DG 113 is higher and starts from 90 dB. This ensures high quality transmission of high frequency signals without interference. Excellent indoor satellite dish cable. The most expensive antenna cable. The cost per meter starts from 65 rubles.

So many options - which TV cable is better

Based on the experience of working with low voltage, we advise you to take a high-quality CAVEL cable. The Italians ate a dog at the antenna wire production for 47 years of work. And the brand has become a reference all over the world. Of course, such a cable is more expensive, but it always justifies the investment by 100%.

Satellite, cable, digital TV - which cable to choose

Surely you are interested in:

• what kind of antenna cable is needed for digital television;
• what tv cable better fit for cable TV;
• which TV wire is better to take for a satellite dish.

From practice, we know exactly what to divide into so many types of television and select a cable for each is a waste of time and money. The reason is simple, the frequencies of channels, conventional terrestrial, digital TV and cable channels, are not very far from each other and fit in the range from 49 to 800 MHz.

This gap is qualitatively "closed" by all types of cables of the SAT 50, SAT 703, RG 6, DG 113, RK 75 brands. And if the total length of the cable is up to 20-30 meters, then the signal attenuation is practically not felt. Even the RG 59 copes well with working in a "star" circuit or when connecting one TV.

! Feel free to choose one type of cable for digital, terrestrial and cable TV.

And to the question: which TV wire is better for digital or cable TV? - let's say so - any of the Cavel cable family will give 100 handicap points to the rest of the brands. But, if you need to "fit" into the budget option, the RG-6 will do.

Antenna wire for satellite TV

Channel broadcasting frequencies for satellites are higher and are measured in thousands of megahertz. The cable must transmit them without significant losses, which are noticeable in the high-frequency range and grow rapidly with each meter. Plus, there is a transfer of special pulses and supply current for the converter local oscillator.

Besides, satellite channels are more sensitive to electronic interference, which means that effective cable shielding is required. The stability of the outer shell is also important. Satellite dish is outside, and part of the wire will be on the street. And there all the delights of weather and precipitation will begin to actively age and destroy the shell

Therefore, choose a quality cable with less attenuation, strong copper conductor, excellent screening and a reliable carbon-shielded sheath.

! We recommend antenna wire for satellite TV grades SAT 50, SAT 703, DG 113 or their analogues.

The best option

Without grimacing and dancing with a tambourine, let's say that a high-quality Cavel branded television cable is a super-optimal option in terms of price-versatility. You get much more than just great performance and beautiful picture on the TV.

1. The quality of execution. The branded cable is an order of magnitude higher than the budget analogue. For example, in an inexpensive assortment (especially made in China) it is very easy to pull the cable stuffing out of the sheath. With a luxury Cavel cable, you will be tortured to tear off even a small piece of "skin".
2. Installation versatility. The branded wire is thicker, stronger, fits perfectly under the plaster as in a cable channel. And when laid externally inside the skirting board, Cavel easily survives mechanical stress.
3. Reliability of contacts. All connections with sockets, plugs, etc. give good contact, when using a proprietary Cavel cable. Because, it is made of high quality materials.

Let's sum up

The online store site offers an antenna cable in an assortment from the democratic Russian RG 6 to the Italian brand Cavel. As well as accessories, electrical and television outlets.

We answer any questions about TV-cable and accessories. We select full set for a turnkey home television network.

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