Almost every average family has a second TV: in the kitchen, in the bedroom, and sometimes in the hallway. Therefore, for many, the question of how to connect two TVs to the same antenna is quite acute. There are not so few ways, but we will focus on the simplest and at the same time effective options.
So, we will figure out how to connect two TVs to one antenna, what tools will be needed for this, and also outline the main stages of this process.
What is needed
In the process of connecting, we need a few details. The tools will be pliers, side cutters and a regular kitchen knife.
First of all, we need a TV splitter, or splitter. This device is capable of dividing the signal from the antenna into several streams (in our case, two). That is, on the one hand there is an input, and on the other, several outputs for connecting to the receiver.
Next, we need five connectors that match the diameter of the outputs on the splitter, as well as two plug-adapters. Choose the antenna cable at your discretion, but it is better to stop at the more expensive but proven options - RG-6 or domestic RK-75.
It is also worth considering that when buying a splitter, be sure to check the number of outputs. For example, three-way models are designed to connect just three televisions, but not two. If for some reason a splitter for three receivers is at hand, then the unnecessary output can be drowned out with a special ballistic resistor with a resistance of 75 Ohms. Be sure to pay special attention to this before connecting two televisions to the same antenna.
Work order
In principle, the connection process itself is uncomplicated, and any user, even one who has never heard of radio equipment, can handle it. For clarity, we divide the whole process into separate stages.
Choosing a TV splitter
First you need to buy a splitter. On the shelves you can find a large assortment of models from different manufacturers. Here a simple rule applies - the more expensive, the better. But there is another important point that you should pay attention to before connecting two televisions to one antenna. It's about soldering. If you have skills in working with a soldering iron, then it is better to give preference to models with soldering. Such splitters, and this connection in particular, are always more reliable; they imply noticeably less signal loss, while maintaining quality.
In that case, if the soldering iron is something incomprehensible for you, then you can take a conventional splitter, but again, taking into account the type of cable available, or vice versa. The best option is a splitter with standard connectors for coaxial wires (cable for antenna type RG-6 / PK-75). After you decide on the splitter, you need to choose the appropriate connectors. The most popular was the convenient, reliable and easy to install F-interface (wrap adapter).
Also, special attention should be paid to the location of the splitter. The best option is approximately the same distance from the splitter to both TVs. It is important that the cable for the antenna is not stretched and does not twist, that is, you do not need to try to stretch it due to lack of footage, or, conversely, twist it. Calculate the distance from the splitter to the TVs in advance and cut off the excess.
Cable preparation
The cable must be cut so that it freely reaches the splitter. As a rule, an old plug is cut off along with a piece of wire. Then you need to cut the cable for installation in the F-connector.
First, we clean the edges, that is, we cut the wrapper to the braid (about 15 mm from the edge) and bend the edges. The insulating “coat” on the cable should protrude slightly, and the vein end should go at least 4-7 mm. The entire procedure for preparing the cable for the adapter-plug can be performed using a kitchen knife and side cutters.
Features of the procedure
It is also important to know that the cable sheath should not touch the central core. Such an error is fraught with partial or complete loss of signal. Similar problems most often arise with SAT 703B and DG-113 cables, where each layer is very thin.
Next, we mount the F-connector on the cable. He got the name “wrap” due to a specific installation, where the plug is simply wound onto a wire. A similar procedure must be done on all cables - and in the end you get five connectors: one from the antenna, two for the output and two for the input.
Connection
In the necessary order, we connect the cables to the splitter. Do not tighten the F-connector much, because this can lead to the loss of the main core from the adapter. Most users leave the splitter as is, that is, hanging out somewhere on the baseboard or under the bedside table. Experts recommend how to properly fix the splitter to avoid tearing and falling out of the core. If there are children in the house, then this item is obligatory for implementation, plus to everything out of place it will be necessary to hide the splitter under some false panel.
If everything is done correctly, then the image on both TVs should be clear and without interference. Otherwise, a specific “snow” may appear due to the loss of part of the signal or the absence of a picture at all.
Satellite TV
It often happens that even after a proper installation of the splitter, the image quality has noticeably worsened. This happens if you connect two TVs to the same satellite dish. The problem arises due to the fact that the splitter in any case takes part of the signal.
One of the options for solving this problem is to buy a splitter with a built-in signal amplifier. Such devices are much more expensive, but at the same time they are much more effective than their simple counterparts.
It is also worth clarifying that all splitters with a built-in amplifier have different amplification factors. In some cases, a clearly enlarged signal is as useless as a weak one. Moreover, it can cause even greater distortion of the picture. This nuance is very often encountered by those who want to connect two televisions to the same Tricolor antenna or to the Rainbow TV. Here you need to seek help from a service specialist of your provider, who can measure the signal level and give advice on choosing a particular splitter with specific numbers.
Amplifier antenna
If we are talking about the usual "Polish" antenna, then to improve the signal, you can connect an amplifier with a power supply, which will significantly add image quality.
To do this, you need to make some changes in an already familiar scheme. It is necessary to remove the F-connector from the entrance to the splitter, then install the plug with the power supply in the free space, which comes with the "Polish" antenna. After that, you should mount an adapter with an antenna socket (“mother”) at the input and connect the connector with an amplifier.
This procedure will increase the gain, where, unlike satellite TV, the maximum value is not so important, so there should be no problems with oversupply.
It will also be useful to note that each subsequent TV greatly reduces the reception quality. Therefore, for a comfortable viewing of your favorite TV shows, it is better not to skimp and purchase an additional antenna instead of “conjuring” with a splitter. This tip is especially relevant if the TV tower is far away from the receiver.