The Correct Aerial

The Correct Aerial

UHF aerials are made in a number of types and are also divided into groups for different ranges of transmission channels. It is important that the receiving aerial corresponds to the transmission group serving your area and is of a type suitable for use with the signal levels available at the location where the aerial is to be installed. The two important characteristics are the gain of the aerial, which determines how low a level of signal can be used, and its directional characteristics which enables an aerial to possibly reject interfering signals. A competent aerial erector will be able to advise on the best aerial to use. Installation needs to be of a high standard, both electrically and mechanically as the aerial is exposed to the weather and can be subjected to considerable forces due to the wind. Electrical performance tends to fall over a period of time, particularly in industrial and coastal areas. Should reception deteriorate it is often due to the aerial developing a fault after a number of years. Of equal importance is the downlead or feeder cable, which connects the aerial to the receiver. This needs to be of high quality and well installed with no sharp bends or damage. Feeders deteriorate with time and may eventually need to be replaced. Water penetration at the aerial connector can also cause a marked loss of performance.

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