How to Install Traditional VHF/UHF Combo Antenna

Here’s how to install the older style traditional VHF/UHF combo log periodic antenna that’s been typical in Australian Capital Cities prior to the digital switchover. These types of antennas have long elements at the rear for VHF Low band(band 1) which was previously used for the ABC’s transmissions in capital cities.

I’d only recommend using these types of aerials if you happen to have a spare one laying around or are able to get it cheap. If you’re doing a new installation, use a new style log periodic which is more compact and work better.

What You Need

You’ll need in addition to the antenna:

• Shifting spanner
• Compression or Crimping tool
• Coax stripper – rotary style recommended
• Cutters
• Cable ties
• F connectors – crimp or compression

See the DIY Digital TV Tool Guide for more details.

Procedure

1. Remove the antenna from the packaging.
2. Fold all the elements of the antenna straight, be sure to check for elements hidden under the antenna centre boom. Some antennas include plastic tabs to lock elements into place
3. Check for any corner reflectors, if included(none shown in video), install them using the supplied screws. The reflector will be shaped a bit like a dish or V shape. The opening should be facing towards the front of the antenna(the part with the shortest elements).
4. Loosen the u-bolt mounting bracket wide enough to place the antenna on the pole.
5. Place the antenna on the top of the pole.
6. Tighten the u-bolt mounting bracket until it grips the pole, but the antenna can still be easily rotated.
7. Align the antenna to the direction of the best signal. This may be as simple as just pointing the same direction as all the other antennas in your area. See DIY TV Antenna Alignment for Digital TV.
8. Tighten the u-bolt’s nuts so that it’s firmly affixed to the pole and can’t swing around.
9. Run a cable through the entry hole in the roof to reach the location of the splitter. It’s best to be generous with the length of the cable. Cut the cable with enough length to easily reach the antenna.
10. Remove the boot from the balun(the black barrel with two wires to butterfly screws) on the antenna.

    

    

11. Place the boot for the balun over the end of the cable. The open end should be towards the cut end of the cable at the antenna end.

    

12. Terminate an F connector on the end of the cable.
13. Insert the centre conductor into the balun f-connector socket and screw the f connector firmly home.

    

14. Replace the boot over the F connector on the balun.

    

15. Cable tie the cable to the pole, leaving a service loop of about 30cm of cable at the bottom.

    

16. Seal the entry hole to the roof.