Connecting two antennas to one coaxial input allows for the possibility of receiving TV stations in two different directions without needing an antenna rotator. While challenging, this type of installation can be accomplished by technically skilled homeowners. A little time and some patience is all that is necessary when completing this task, which can be difficult at times and should only be attempted by homeowners with experience in the field.
Step 1
Determine where the antennas are located on the house. The most common spot is the roof. However, attics are also used on occasion. The lowest frequency that will be received is 2. A frequency of 2 is equal to 54 megahertz. Divide 467 by 54 to get the proper distance the vertical antennas should be separated on the roof. In this instance the distance is 8.64 feet.
Step 2
Secure the antennas to the roof. These need to be separated at least 8.64 feet. Mount the first antenna in the center of the roof. Mounting will vary and instructions can be found with the antenna. Attach the second antenna above the first one, making sure to leave the proper distance. Once again instructions will be provided.
Step 3
Connect the coaxial cable to both antennas. This cable must be the same length to prevent interference between the two antennas.
Step 4
Run the coaxial cable to the coaxial signal combiner and connect both cables. The combiner acts as a backwards two-way signal splitter.
Step 5
Run a coaxial cable from the output of the signal combiner to the television set. Repeat this process for all of the cables that are to be connected.
Step 6
Turn on all the televisions that were connected to make sure they are all in proper working order.
Things You'll Need
TV antenna coupler
75-ohm cable
Coaxial cables
Coaxial combiner
Ladder
Warning
Make sure the antennas are not set up too close together on the roof or in the attic. For vertical antennas, the rule of thumb for spacing is half a wavelength. For horizontal spacing, such as in an attic, it is recommended to space at one complete wavelength. This will prevent the television screen from receiving a ghosting on the picture due to antenna interference.
Do not attempt to install antennas during a storm as electrocution is a possibility.
Turn off all electronic equipment that will be used in the installation before combining the cables.