If you have just moved to the Gold Coast or are finally upgrading your digital television or set top box, there are a few things of note when before you make your purchase. Maybe the house needs a new antenna and you are confused as to which one to choose? Worry not, as there are plenty of professionals ready to help! Choosing the type of antenna or set top box doesn’t have to be a daunting experience, as long as you follow these simple tips.
If you are upgrading your television to a newer one, you won’t have to worry as nearly all televisions made for the living room are now digital ready. This means that the television sets have a single, or sometimes dual digital tuner, allowing you to watch all of the channels that Freeview offers down your Gold Coast TV antenna.
Future-proof options
In some instances, the television may have a CAM or Conditional Access Module on the rear panel which allows you access to premium Pay TV services at a later date with the addition of a smart card via a subscription television service - in a similar way that satellite smart cards work to descramble the satellite TV signals you pay for.
When shopping for a set top box, there is a multitude of options starting from the basic Freeview decoder which you can use on any new or old television to watch digital channels which are often very reasonably priced. The range of set top boxes also includes Freeview receivers that allow you to record the television programmes, much like an old VHS recorder.
DVR recording
Digital Video Recorders are available to record the digital content onto a hard drive within the unit that gives you options to record many hours of programming at a click of the remote. These devices tend to have two digital tuners built into them to allow you to record one program whilst watching another, giving you added features and twice the capabilities.
But the most important piece of kit you will need to watch your digital television on Freeview is your antenna. Your antenna should be checked every year or so, especially after periods of heavy storms. Knowing your antenna and its cabling are in good condition will mean that your TV signal will always be fantastic!
When choosing to upgrade to a newer antenna, it is always good to know which antenna you actually need. Depending on your location, this could mean that you require a wide band antenna, a regular Yagi antenna, an indoor antenna or a high gain antenna. The requirement for each type of antenna depends on your particular location and surrounding area, as well as the quality of the broadcast signal.
Choosing the right antenna
If you live in an area where the local transmitter is in line of sight with a strong signal without obstructions such as large buildings then you may only need an indoor antenna, though of good quality. If you live in an area that is obscured by mountains, hills or other topography, then a high gain antenna will suit your needs best with the possibility of using a mast head antenna if you are really out in the sticks!
Wide-band or high-gain?
Wide band antennas are used in areas where one or two transmitters (where your antenna is pointing toward) are being picked up, or that you have issues in tuning in channels on your setup screen. In these cases, you may have issues with channels appearing and disappearing from your menu, so a wide band antenna and use of a set top box or television which allows you to lock in certain frequency multiplexes is a bonus!
If you are in any doubt about your skills in purchasing the right antenna depending on your location, testing the signal level in your area, installing an antenna safely and using high quality copper core coaxial cable and routing it properly, then call in a professional. They will be able to survey the possibilities and ensure that you get the perfect digital Freeview signal every time from your newly installed TV Antenna Gold Coast can be proud of!
