Hills TV Antenna Selection Guide: An Overview
Hills antennas, manufactured in Australia, offer a lifetime warranty and cater to diverse reception needs, including VHF and UHF signals․
Selecting the correct Hills antenna—Tru-Band, UHF, or VHF—is crucial for optimal digital TV reception, especially with 4G/5G interference․
Coaxial cables like RG58, RG213, LL195, and LL240 ensure reliable signal transmission, while features like gain and F/B ratio enhance performance․
Understanding Digital TV Reception
Digital television (DTV) broadcasting utilizes a different signal structure than its analog predecessor, requiring specialized antennas for optimal reception․ Unlike analog signals, DTV is ‘all or nothing’ – a weak signal results in pixelation or complete signal loss, demanding a stronger, cleaner signal for consistent viewing․
Hills antennas are designed to capture these digital signals effectively, but understanding signal propagation is key․ Factors like distance from the transmitter, terrain, and building materials impact signal strength․ Interference from other electronic devices, particularly 4G and 5G networks, can also disrupt DTV reception․
Choosing an antenna with appropriate gain and front-to-back ratio is vital․ Gain amplifies the desired signal, while the F/B ratio minimizes interference from unwanted sources․ A proper installation, avoiding obstructions and utilizing quality coaxial cables, further ensures a stable and clear digital TV picture․
The Importance of Antenna Type
Selecting the correct antenna type is paramount for successful digital TV reception․ Hills offers UHF, VHF, and Tru-Band antennas, each designed for specific frequency ranges and broadcasting scenarios․ UHF antennas are generally suitable for most digital TV channels, as many broadcasters utilize this band․
VHF antennas, however, remain essential for accessing certain channels, particularly those broadcasting on lower frequencies․ Tru-Band antennas combine both UHF and VHF capabilities, providing a versatile solution for areas with mixed signal environments․ Identifying the broadcast frequencies in your region is crucial for choosing the appropriate antenna․
Consider your location and the channels you wish to receive․ If you primarily watch channels on the UHF band, a dedicated UHF antenna will suffice․ However, if you need access to VHF channels, a Tru-Band antenna is the better choice, ensuring comprehensive coverage․
Types of Hills TV Antennas
Hills provides diverse antenna options: UHF for standard digital TV, VHF for specific channels, and Tru-Band models combining both for broader reception․
UHF Antennas for Digital TV
Hills Tru-Spec UHF antennas represent the latest technology designed specifically for regional city reception across Australia, focusing solely on Ultra High Frequency signals․
These antennas are ideal for areas predominantly broadcasting digital TV channels within the UHF band (channels 28-38), offering optimized performance and signal clarity․
UHF antennas generally provide excellent reception in metropolitan and surrounding areas where UHF signals are strong, minimizing interference from other sources․
Hills’ UHF models, like the Black Arrow, are engineered for high gain (7-10dB) and a favorable front-to-back ratio (16-20dB), effectively rejecting unwanted signals․
The construction often includes ultrasonically sealed baluns and single-element reflectors, enhancing durability and signal capture, ensuring a reliable viewing experience․
Choosing a UHF antenna simplifies installation and maximizes signal strength for the majority of free-to-air digital TV broadcasts in many Australian locations․
VHF Antennas: For Specific Channels
VHF antennas are specifically designed to capture Very High Frequency signals, typically used for channels 6-12, which may still be broadcast in certain regional areas;
Hills offers VHF antennas for viewers who require reception of these specific channels, ensuring access to a complete range of free-to-air television programming․
These antennas are particularly useful in locations where VHF signals remain strong, often found in areas further from metropolitan broadcasting towers․
When selecting a VHF antenna, consider the signal strength and potential interference in your area to optimize performance and picture quality․
Tru-Band antennas, combining both UHF and VHF capabilities, provide a versatile solution for areas with mixed signal broadcasts, offering broader coverage․
Hills antennas are designed and made in Australia, offering a money-back satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty for peace of mind․
Tru-Band Antennas: Combining UHF and VHF
Tru-Band antennas represent a versatile solution for television reception, expertly combining both UHF and VHF capabilities into a single unit․
Hills Tru-Band models, like the Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus (FB608582), are ideal for areas receiving signals across both frequency bands – channels 6-12 and 28-38․
This eliminates the need for separate antennas, simplifying installation and reducing clutter on your roof or wall․
They are particularly beneficial in regions where both VHF and 4G signals coexist, providing robust reception without interference․
The Black Arrow Metro Plus boasts a gain of 7-9dB for VHF and 7-10dB for UHF, with a strong front-to-back ratio for clear signal capture․
Hills Tru-Band antennas are designed and manufactured in Australia, backed by a lifetime warranty and a satisfaction guarantee․
Key Features to Consider
Antenna gain, front-to-back ratio, connector types (F-type), and technologies like baluns and diplexers are vital for optimal signal reception and interference reduction․
Antenna Gain (dB) Explained
Antenna gain, measured in decibels (dB), signifies an antenna’s ability to concentrate signal strength in a specific direction․ Hills antennas exhibit varying gain levels, typically ranging from 7dB to 10dB for UHF and similar values for VHF components within Tru-Band models․
Higher gain doesn’t always equate to better reception; it depends on your location and signal source․ A higher gain antenna focuses the signal, ideal for weaker signals but requiring precise aiming․ Conversely, lower gain antennas offer a wider reception angle, suitable for strong, nearby signals․
The gain specification (e․g․, 7-9dB) indicates a range, reflecting performance across different frequency channels․ Hills antennas are designed to maximize gain within their specified frequency bands, ensuring optimal signal capture for digital TV broadcasts․ Understanding dB helps match the antenna to your specific reception environment․
Front-to-Back (F/B) Ratio: Reducing Interference
The front-to-back (F/B) ratio, measured in decibels (dB), indicates an antenna’s ability to reject signals from the rear, minimizing interference․ Hills antennas boast F/B ratios ranging from 13-15dB for VHF and 16-20dB for UHF, signifying strong interference rejection capabilities․
A higher F/B ratio is crucial in areas with strong reflected signals or interference sources behind the antenna, such as mobile phone towers (4G/5G)․ It ensures the antenna prioritizes the direct signal from the broadcast tower, improving picture quality and stability․
Effective interference rejection is vital for reliable digital TV reception․ Hills antennas are engineered to deliver high F/B ratios, providing a clearer signal and reducing the likelihood of pixelation or signal dropouts, especially in challenging reception environments․
Connector Types: F-Type Connectors
Hills TV antennas universally utilize F-type connectors for coaxial cable attachment, ensuring a secure and weatherproof connection․ This standardized connector type simplifies installation and compatibility with various coaxial cables and accessories․
F-type connectors are known for their robust construction and reliable performance, minimizing signal loss and maintaining optimal signal integrity․ Proper installation is crucial; the connector should be firmly screwed onto both the antenna and the cable, avoiding over-tightening․
When connecting cables, ensure the center conductor of the coaxial cable is properly aligned and secured within the F-type connector․ Using high-quality F-type connectors and ensuring a tight, weatherproof seal are essential for long-term performance and preventing signal degradation․
Balun and Diplexer Technology
Hills antennas frequently incorporate Balun and Diplexer technology to optimize signal reception and manage interference․ A Balun (Balanced to Unbalanced) transformer ensures impedance matching between the balanced antenna and the unbalanced coaxial cable, minimizing signal reflections and maximizing signal transfer․
Diplexers, often ultrasonically sealed in Hills antennas, allow multiple signals – like TV and radio – to travel through a single coaxial cable․ This eliminates the need for separate cables for each service, simplifying installation and reducing clutter․
The inclusion of a PCB Balun within the antenna design further enhances performance and reliability․ These technologies contribute to a cleaner, stronger signal, particularly important in areas with potential interference from 4G/5G networks․
Popular Hills Antenna Models
Hills offers diverse models like the Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus (FB608582) and Tru-Spec UHF antennas, designed for regional city reception across Australia․
Hills Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus (FB608582)
The Hills Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus (FB608582) is a highly regarded antenna, expertly designed for metropolitan and near-metropolitan digital TV reception․ This antenna excels in areas receiving both VHF and UHF signals, offering a versatile solution for households needing comprehensive channel access․
Specifically, it covers channels 6-12 and 28-38, boasting a gain of 7-9dB for VHF and 7-10dB for UHF․ Its front-to-back (F/B) ratio ranges from 13-15dB on VHF and 16-20dB on UHF, effectively minimizing interference from unwanted signals․ The inclusion of an ultrasonically sealed balun and a single element reflector further enhances its performance and durability․
Featuring an F-type connector and PCB-mounted balun, installation is streamlined and reliable․ Proudly designed and manufactured in Australia, the Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus comes with a money-back satisfaction guarantee, demonstrating Hills’ commitment to quality and customer confidence․
Hills Tru-Spec UHF Antennas
Hills Tru-Spec UHF antennas represent the latest in digital TV reception technology, specifically engineered for regional city reception across Australia․ These antennas are designed as ‘UHF only’ Yagi antennas, focusing solely on the UHF frequency band for optimal performance in areas with strong UHF signals and minimal VHF transmission․
Ideal for locations where VHF signals are weak or non-existent, Tru-Spec antennas deliver a clear and stable digital TV picture․ They are particularly effective in environments where 4G and 5G mobile signals may cause interference, providing a robust solution for consistent viewing․
The Tru-Spec range offers various models tailored to different signal strengths and reception challenges, ensuring a suitable option for most regional city households․ Backed by Hills’ lifetime warranty, these antennas provide long-lasting reliability and peace of mind․
Hills Regional City Reception Antennas
Hills offers a specialized range of antennas designed specifically for the unique reception challenges found in regional cities throughout Australia․ These antennas are engineered to overcome signal propagation issues common in areas further from metropolitan transmission towers, ensuring a reliable and high-quality digital TV signal․
The Black Arrow Tru-Band Metro Plus (FB608582) is a prime example, combining both UHF and VHF reception capabilities within a single unit․ This makes it suitable for areas receiving signals on both frequency bands, offering versatility and convenience․
These antennas often feature high gain and optimized front-to-back ratios to maximize signal capture and minimize interference from unwanted sources․ Hills’ commitment to quality and durability, backed by a lifetime warranty, makes these antennas a smart investment for regional viewers․
Coaxial Cables and Accessories
Hills provides a comprehensive selection of coaxial cables—RG58, RG213, LL195, and LL240—to ensure optimal signal transmission and connectivity for your antenna system․
RG58 Coaxial Cable: Applications
RG58 coaxial cable is a commonly used option for shorter antenna runs, typically within homes or for connecting devices close to the television․ It’s a versatile cable suitable for various applications, though it’s generally considered less effective for long distances due to signal loss․
Specifically, RG58 is often employed for connecting the antenna to a set-top box or directly to a TV when the distance is minimal․ Its flexibility makes installation easier in tight spaces, and it’s a cost-effective solution for basic setups․ However, for longer cable runs or areas with potential interference, upgrading to RG213 or a low-loss cable like LL195 is recommended to maintain signal strength and quality․
While suitable for many scenarios, remember that RG58’s higher attenuation means the signal degrades more quickly over distance compared to other coaxial cable types․ Therefore, careful consideration of cable length is crucial when choosing RG58 for your Hills antenna installation․
RG213 Coaxial Cable: Higher Performance
RG213 coaxial cable represents a significant upgrade over RG58, offering superior performance for Hills antenna installations, particularly when dealing with longer cable runs․ Its construction features a thicker center conductor and more robust shielding, resulting in lower signal loss and improved resistance to interference․
This makes RG213 an excellent choice for situations where the antenna is located further from the television or set-top box․ The reduced attenuation ensures a stronger, clearer signal, leading to better picture and sound quality․ It’s also more durable and better equipped to withstand environmental factors․
While more expensive than RG58, the investment in RG213 is often worthwhile for those prioritizing optimal signal integrity․ It’s a reliable option for demanding installations and provides a solid foundation for a high-quality digital TV viewing experience with your Hills antenna․
LL195 and LL240 Cables: Low Loss Options
LL195 and LL240 coaxial cables represent premium, low-loss alternatives designed for optimal signal transmission with Hills antennas․ These cables utilize advanced construction techniques and materials to minimize signal attenuation, even over extended distances․ They are ideal for installations where maintaining signal strength is paramount․
Compared to traditional RG-series cables, LL195 and LL240 offer significantly lower dB loss per meter, resulting in a clearer, more stable picture․ This is particularly beneficial in rural areas or locations with challenging reception conditions․ The superior shielding also provides enhanced protection against interference․
While representing a higher investment, the improved performance and reliability of LL195 and LL240 cables make them a worthwhile choice for discerning users seeking the best possible digital TV experience with their Hills antenna system․
Installation Considerations
Proper antenna placement, avoiding obstructions like hills, is vital for signal strength․ Pole and wall mounting options offer flexibility, while interference checks are essential․
Antenna Placement: Avoiding Obstructions
Optimal antenna placement is paramount for maximizing signal reception with your Hills antenna․ Carefully consider the surrounding environment, as obstructions significantly impact performance․ Hills, trees, buildings, and even other structures can block or weaken the television signal․
Elevated positions generally provide a clearer line of sight to the broadcast towers․ Mounting the antenna as high as safely possible, on a roof or elevated pole, is often recommended․ Avoid placing the antenna in valleys or behind substantial obstacles․
A clear line of sight doesn’t always mean a direct view; signals can sometimes bend or reflect․ However, minimizing obstructions remains the best practice․ Before final installation, temporarily position the antenna at various locations to test signal strength and identify the optimal placement․ Remember to account for potential future growth of trees or construction of new buildings․
Mounting Options: Pole and Wall Mounts
Hills antennas offer versatile mounting options to suit various property types and installation preferences․ Pole mounts are frequently favored for their ability to elevate the antenna above obstructions, providing a clearer signal path․ These mounts typically attach to existing poles or require a dedicated pole installation, ensuring stability and height․
Wall mounts provide a convenient solution when a pole mount isn’t feasible․ They securely attach the antenna to the side of a building, offering a lower profile installation․ Ensure the wall is structurally sound enough to support the antenna’s weight, especially in windy conditions․
Proper mounting hardware is crucial for safety and performance․ Use corrosion-resistant materials suitable for outdoor environments․ Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for secure installation, and consider professional installation if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process․
Signal Strength and Interference
Assessing signal strength is paramount for optimal TV reception․ Areas with weak signals may require a higher-gain antenna or a signal amplifier to boost reception․ Online tools and apps can help estimate signal strength based on your location and transmitter locations․
Interference from various sources can degrade signal quality․ 4G and 5G mobile networks are known to operate in frequencies close to TV signals, potentially causing interference․ Choosing an antenna with a high front-to-back ratio minimizes unwanted signals․
Physical obstructions like hills, trees, and buildings can also weaken signals․ Careful antenna placement, utilizing pole or wall mounts to gain height, can mitigate these issues․ Regularly check cable connections and consider a balun to reduce noise․
Troubleshooting Reception Issues
Addressing reception problems involves checking cable connections, considering signal amplifiers for weak signals, and mitigating 4G/5G interference with appropriate antennas․
Checking Cable Connections
Ensuring secure and properly connected coaxial cables is the first step in troubleshooting reception issues with your Hills antenna system․ Begin by visually inspecting the cables for any physical damage, such as kinks, cuts, or crushed sections, which can compromise signal integrity․
Focus on the F-type connectors at both ends – the antenna and the television․ Confirm they are tightly screwed on, but avoid over-tightening, as this can strip the threads․ A loose connection introduces signal loss and potential interference․
Verify that the cable is correctly connected to the appropriate input on your television or set-top box․ If using a splitter to distribute the signal to multiple devices, check those connections as well․ Consider replacing older or suspect cables with new, high-quality coaxial cables like RG58 or RG213 for improved performance․
Finally, a quick test involves gently wiggling the cable at the connections while observing the TV screen for any fluctuations in signal strength, indicating a loose or faulty connection․
Amplifiers: Boosting Weak Signals
When a Hills antenna receives a weak signal, a masthead amplifier can significantly improve reception․ These amplifiers, mounted close to the antenna, boost the signal before it travels down the cable, minimizing signal loss due to cable length and interference․
However, amplifiers aren’t always the solution․ Adding an amplifier to an already strong signal can cause distortion and overload, worsening reception․ It’s crucial to determine if a weak signal is genuinely the issue․
Consider a low-noise amplifier (LNA) for optimal performance, as they introduce minimal interference․ Ensure the amplifier is compatible with your antenna type (UHF, VHF, or Tru-Band) and provides sufficient gain without over-amplifying the signal․
Proper installation and power supply are vital․ Use a shielded power supply to prevent interference from entering the system․ Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results․
Dealing with 4G/5G Interference
The expansion of 4G and 5G mobile networks can cause interference with digital TV signals, particularly on VHF channels․ Hills antennas, especially Tru-Band models, are designed to mitigate this issue by filtering out these unwanted signals․
If you experience pixelation or signal dropouts, especially after the rollout of new mobile towers, 4G/5G interference is a likely cause․ A high front-to-back ratio antenna helps reject signals from the rear, reducing interference from mobile towers․
Consider using an LTE filter, installed between the antenna and the TV, to block 4G/5G signals․ Ensure the filter is compatible with the frequency bands used in your area․
Proper cable shielding and grounding are also crucial to minimize interference․ A professional antenna installer can assess your situation and recommend the best solution․
Hills Antenna Warranty and Support
Hills antennas boast a lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term reliability․ Jim’s Antennas and qualified installers provide professional support and installation services nationwide․
Lifetime Warranty on Hills Antennas
Hills antennas are renowned for their exceptional durability and are backed by a comprehensive lifetime warranty, a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction․ This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the entire lifespan of the original purchaser, providing peace of mind and long-term value․
The lifetime warranty applies to antennas manufactured by Hills and purchased through authorized retailers․ It doesn’t cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, abuse, or acts of nature․ However, it assures customers that their investment is protected against manufacturing faults․
To make a warranty claim, retain your proof of purchase and contact Hills or an authorized service provider․ The warranty process typically involves assessment of the antenna to verify the defect․ Hills will then, at its discretion, repair or replace the faulty antenna, ensuring continued optimal TV reception․
Finding a Hills Antenna Installer
Professional installation is crucial for maximizing the performance of your Hills TV antenna and ensuring optimal signal reception․ While DIY installation is possible, a qualified installer possesses the expertise to accurately assess your location’s signal strength and identify potential interference sources․
Jim’s Antennas is a widely recognized provider specializing in Hills antenna installation and servicing․ They offer comprehensive services, including site surveys, antenna selection, precise mounting, and cable connections․ Other reputable antenna installers can be found through online directories and local recommendations․
When choosing an installer, verify their licensing, insurance, and experience with Hills products․ Request quotes from multiple installers, comparing their services and pricing․ A skilled installer will guarantee their workmanship and provide advice on optimizing your TV setup for the best possible viewing experience․