Antennas Direct ClearStream 2 Indoor/Outdoor DTV Installation Instructions - Manual (Page 2)

Problems Caused by Reflected Signals
Reflected signals (multipath interference) are often a source of problems. For those living close to transmitting towers, multipath interference occurs when
strong signals bounce off nearby buildings and other surfaces causing signal loss. If your transmitting towers are close, try aiming your antenna in different
directions away from the towers and check for more stations received. Users very close to the transmitters can use an attenuator to lower the signal strength
to reduce multipath interference. If you live less than 5 miles from your local transmitters, you may need a variable attenuator to reduce the signal to a level
that will not overload your HDTV set.
Keep the antenna away from any metallic objects.
Mount your antenna away from all reflective sur-
faces or other antennas.
Weak Signals from Distance and/or Installation
In rural areas, 20 – 50 miles distant from the
transmitter, an outdoor antenna equipped with an
amplifier (http://www.antennasdirect.com/antenna_
amplifier.html) can provide good reception especially if the signal is not blocked by terrain (hills, etc.)
Common causes of signal loss: (approximate)
• Long cable runs - 30% loss for every 100 ft of RG6
• Satellite Diplexers -10%-50% loss
• Splitters - 50% loss per port
• Corroded connections - 20% -90% loss
Another common cause of poor reception is strong signals from nearby FM Radio and TV stations. Strong signals can overwhelm a receiver. Too much signal is
just as bad as too little.
Note: With digital television, it’s an “all-or-nothing” proposition. On a digital channel you will never see “snow” or “fuzz” If you see “snow” when you are
tuned to an analog broadcast. Once a digital signal is acquired, it will be perfect. If that signal is interrupted, it will be blank.
ALWAYS perform a channel scan after making changes to the antenna or connections, most TVs will not add the channels automatically.
Combining multiple antennas
When using separate antennas, mounted on the same mast, try and keep at least 4-6 feet of vertical separation
between antennas. UHF Yagi-style antennas can usually be mounted with about a 4-foot vertical separation. If
you want to combine signals so that you have only one lead going into your house, use a UHF/VHF combiner
which includes a channel filter for each antenna, so as not to pick up out-of phase signals through the
other antenna.
Optional Grounding Information
Grounding the coax cable with a coaxial lighting surge protector will protect your
equipment from voltage surges created by nearby strikes but will not protect from a
direct strike. To protect yourself from a direct strike attach a lightening arrester to the
antenna mast. Connect #8 gauge wire to a copper clad ground rod driving it at least
four feet into the ground. Check your local electrical codes to make sure you are in
compliance– We recommend calling a professional electrician to advise and/or install.
WATCH FOR WIRES!
Installation of this product near power lines is dangerous. We recommend you stay
a minimum of 6 meters (20 feet) from all power lines. If any part of the antenna or
mast assembly comes in contact with a power line, call your local power company. DO
NOT TRY TO REMOVE IT YOURSELF!
WARNING Perform as many functions as possible on the ground. Installing antennas on windy days can be dangerous, even slight winds create strong forces.
Be prepared to safely handle these forces at unexpected moments. Antennas Direct Inc. is not responsible or liable for damage or injury resulting from an-
tenna installations.
WARNING Antennas improperly installed on an inadequate structure are very susceptible to wind damage. This damage can be life threatening. The owner
and installer assumes full responsibility that the installation is structurally sound to support all loads (weight, wind & ice) and properly sealed against leaks.
Antennas Direct Inc. will not accept liability for any damage caused by an antenna system due to the many unknown variable applications.
WARNING Do not attempt to install if drunk, pregnant or both. Do not throw antenna at spouse.
Power Service Grounding Electrode System
Grounding Conductors
Ground
Clamps
Electric Service
Equipment
Ground Clamp
Antenna Cable
Antenna Discharge Unit
Signal received direct
from transmitter
Signal received via
reflection off hill
16388 Westwoods Business Park
Ellisville, MO 63021
877-825-5572