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A Comprehensive Guide On How To Retune A Samsung TV

samsung tv

Freeview is the biggest TV platform in the UK. According to the most recent count, Freeview is used by over 18 million homes, almost 95% of the entire nation’s most popular shows. It also offers more than 20 000 hours of TV on demand. The best part of it is that it is totally FREE!

That’s right. The entire country can watch the telly for no cost at all! Seems like quite a deal right? Ignoring this free offer would be like looking a gift horse to the mouth. Curious how you can get Freeview on your TV? Read it here. If you want to access Freeview on your TV, all you need is a Freeview Aerial. We can help you there! Aerialforce offers same-day Freeview aerial installations so that your house can enjoy all of this free programming in no time!

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This article will guide you through the steps on how to retune your Samsung TV.

If you happen to have a Samsung TV, there is a chance that it might not be compatible with Freeview right away. Don’t despair. You just have to take a few additional steps so you too can get to watch the most recent episodes of Line of Duty, Glass Houses, Our Girl, and Celebrity Supply Teacher on your smart tv.

Samsung TVs that are manufactured before 2016 will still have Freeview installed. You can read about how to set up Freeview on your Samsung TV here. However, if your Samsung smart TV is one of the newer models, it would not be able to find Freeview channels right away. If this is your case, you will need to get a Freeview recorder or a set-top box. Once you’ve rigged up your system, you will be able to access Freeview channels.

The road doesn’t end there for you, though. Your TV reception is not infallible. When your signal wavers, due to bad weather, for instance, you need to know how to retune Samsung TV to the right frequency. When you’re losing channels, follow the steps we’ve written down so you can get them back.

  1. Find your TV remote
  2. Turn on your TV and press the Menu button. This will open the settings menu
  3. Look for the aerial icon on your settings menu and press OK. The settings for your aerial should appear
  4. Look for the “Auto Store” option on the list. Click OK on your remote control
  5. The auto tuning process will start once you have pressed OK. Wait for your TV to finish retuning. This usually takes from 1 to 5 minutes. You will get a notification once your TV has completed retuning
  6. Press the exit button on your remote control
  7. Check if the tuning process worked. Click the channel list button on your remote so you can access the list of digital channels that you have access to

Did it work? Do you have access to your favourite tv channel? If so, enjoy watching the telly! If it didn’t, it might be best to call for a professional aerial engineer to inspect your system. Call Aerialforce now at 0330 173 0805 for same-day TV aerial services.

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How to Set-Up Sky Remote: A Complete Guide

Sky Remote

While Freeview and Freesat are excellent programs, it doesn’t exactly provide the premium TV experience. If you want to splurge on your home entertainment system, you can consider switching to Sky TV. It has some of the best channels and shows in the UK and they are constantly creating new packages for their users. 

The company has a whole family of additional devices like the Sky remote control and the Sky box. If you are new to Sky, control your viewing experience by properly setting up your system. Once you figure out how to program your Sky remote control, you can host movie nights with family and friends! Here is Aerialforce’s complete guide for how to set up Sky remote.

(If you are interested in our other Sky guides you can check out: Watching Sky TV From Multiple Rooms: A Guide)

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Different Sky Remotes

Over the years Sky TV released several versions of the Sky remote. They have one for Sky TV, Sky+, and Sky Q. For Sky TV and Sky+, you should have no problem switching between the two remotes. 

The main difference between the two is purely aesthetics, though users have mentioned that it is easier to change the batteries on the Sky TV remote than Sky+. The Sky box isn’t too picky, but you may need to toggle around the settings if you want to use your Sky remote for your HD box.

With the recent addition of Sky Q, they expanded their remote control options. Some of the highlights of these new remotes are voice control, touch feature, and Find My Remote. There are 3 stand-out models. The first kind is similar to the traditional Sky remote control. It has the usual buttons and features. Unlike the regular Sky remote, this one has a voice control option. 

The second is the Sky Q Touch remote. Just like its name, it has a touch-feature so you can swipe and scroll through your channels. People have mixed feelings about the touch remote because of its sensitivity. When you accidentally tap or swipe, it can affect your viewing experience. If you don’t have young children at home, it is very easy to use. Among all the Sky remotes, this one really grows on you. 

(If you are interested in switching to Sky Q, you check our The Complete Guide to Your Sky Q Installation)

And the third model is a combination between the two. It has the same style and design as the touch remote, but instead of its touch feature, you get the usual buttons. Now that you know the different remote options for Sky, let’s go through the step-by-step process of pairing them with your TV.

How To Connect Your Sky Remote To Your TV

When you are connecting a new Sky remote to your TV, your old Sky handbook can come in handy for the digit codes. However, if you already chucked it in the bin, here is how you can connect your Sky remote to your TV:

Identify Your Model

The first step is identifying the model of your Sky remote and your TV since this can affect the codes you can use. You can identify your model by looking inside your battery cover. Then get the brand and model of your TV. Figuring out the brand is a no-brainer, but the model can be tricky. You can check your TV manual, box, or purchase receipt to find out. With all this information you can find your 3 or 4 digit codes for Sky remote here. 

Program Your Remote With Code

Have your 4 digit code for Sky remote in front of you, and you can get started. It is a simple process that only takes 3 steps when you know your code. 

  1. Press TV on your Sky Remote.
  2. Press Select and the Red button at the same time until the red light on your remote blinks twice
  3. Input your 4 digit code and press Select. 

Having problems with your sky remote control? If you are sure about your 4 digit code, simply try again. Sometimes it takes a while until your TV can properly save it. If you do not know your exact code, try every 4 digit code listed for your TV brand until you find the right one. 

If you have exhausted both methods, but your sky remote control does not pair, maybe it isn’t a 4 digit code. If you got your Sky remote second-hand, it probably is a 3 digit code because it is an older model. The instructions are the same, press TV, press select and the red button until it blinks twice, then input your code. When you can control the volume, you successfully set up your sky remote control!

How To Connect Your Sky Q Remote To Your TV

If you are connecting a new Sky Q or Sky Q Accessibility remote to your Sky box, here are the following steps:

  1. Press the Home button on your Sky Q remote.
  2. Select Settings > Setup > then Remote Control
  3. Select the Remote you are using
  4. Then select Control Your TV, then Find It For Me
  5. From there select your TV brand among the options
  6. Press and hold buttons 1 and 3 for 2 seconds and enter the code on your screen.

You can see if you successfully paired your Sky Q remote control by changing the volume or flipping through the channels. If it doesn’t work, you simply have to try again. 

In the worst-case scenario, set it back to its factory default setting by pressing 7 and 9 together until your remote’s red light flashes 4 times. When you reset your remote control, you can try again.

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How To Connect Your Sky Q Touch Remote To Your TV

If you have a Sky Q Touch Remote or a Sky Q Voice Control remote the instructions vary. 

  1. Press and hold buttons 1 and 3 at the same time
  2. Select Continue and go to Brand of the TV
  3. Then Select Find It For Me

Again, if you cannot change the volume, follow the steps in the previous section and try again. When you can change the volume, answer the final question. If you have a speaker system, there are more instructions you have to follow to program your Sky. If you don’t have a Soundbox or speaker, you are good to go!

When you finish pairing your Sky Q Touch remote, you can set up touch control 

  1. Press the Home button
  2. Select Settings> Setup> then Remote Control
  3. Select Sky Q Touch Remote and turn Touch Control On or Off

Then that’s it! You can now swipe, scroll, and tap to control the settings of your TV like you would with your smartphone. It is a nifty feature that can make it difficult to go back to the old Sky remote. If the touch feature is not for you, then simply turn it off and use the buttons as usual.   

Important Things To Note

Your Sky box can only accommodate one TV remote at a time. If you are replacing a damaged Sky remote or upgrading to a newer model, you need to unpair the previous remote control first. You can reset the factory settings of your old remote by holding 7 or 9 until the light flashes 4 times. If you damaged or misplaced your Sky remote you have to manually unpair it from your Sky box. If these steps don’t work, you can always contact Sky with your questions and concerns. 

If you have a Sky Q Voice Control remote, you can only use the voice control feature when your Sky box is connected to your broadband. If you lose your broadband connection, you can no longer use Voice Control and may have to make do with the buttons instead.

And last, but definitely not the least, you can set your Sky remote to control your TV and Sky Q at the same time. You can turn both devices on and off with HDMI control. However, you need to have a compatible TV with a feature Sky calls Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), but it can go by many names. If you have a more current TV model, this should not be a problem. To program your sky remote control follow these steps:

  1. Press the Home button on your Sky remote control
  2. Select Settings> Setup
  3. Select Audio Visual> HDMI Control then turn it On

This feature was first introduced with Sky + as HDMI One-Touch-Play. The instructions are similar. Visit settings and setup and turn the CEC setting on, once you have it in place, press the Standby button. Keep it on Standby for 30 seconds then press the Sky button, and you can get HDMI control!

With every upgrade, your Sky remote just gets better and better. Whether you notice it or not, your Sky remote control can affect your TV experience. If you are interested in switching to Sky, Aerialforce can help you set up your satellite dish! We have professional technicians who can get you the best TV reception possible. You can contact us at 0330 173 8058 or book us online here!

How To Set Up Freeview On Your Samsung Smart TV

freeview channel

So, you aren’t sure how to set up Freeview on Samsung Smart TV

Well, you’ll be glad to know that this dilemma is more common than you think! Whether you’ve got a new Samsung Smart TV, or have recently made the decision to get Freeview for your TV system, we definitely can give you a guide on how to get Freeview on your TV! 

Follow this guide, and you will be enjoying Freeview on your Samsung Smart TV in no time!

Before Setting Up

Before anything else, you will have to determine if your TV is Freeview-ready. 

Samsung TVs manufactured in 2016 or earlier will probably have Freeview installed, which means you can easily jump ahead to the next first step. However, newer Samsung Smart TV models do not have Freeview built-in, which means you will have to deal with your Samsung TV not finding channels. In such situations, you will need a Freeview recorder or set-top box before you can access Freeview channels. 

Additionally, you will need a minimum internet or broadband speed of 2mbps to be able to use the catch-up and on-demand services on Freeview Play. In the UK, a TV licence is also a requirement, regardless of the TV service you will be using. 

Most importantly, you will need a TV aerial which you will use to receive the TV signals from the TV transmitter. You will either need a professional to help you install your aerial or install it yourself.

Once you’re sure you’ve got everything ready, you may begin setting up Freeview on your Samsung Smart TV.  

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Setting It Up

Setting Up A Freeview-ready TV

If your Samsung Smart TV already has Freeview installed on it, the process is relatively straightforward. All you have to do is:

  1. Using a coaxial cable, connect your TV (through the TV aerial input) to the TV aerial. Since the location of the aerial and the location of the TV will differ from one house to another, determining how much cable you need will be up to you. Do take note, though, that the length of your cable may affect your TV signal quality. 
  2. Power up your TV and input your wi-fi network and password. 
  3. You will then be prompted to tune your TV to find the available Freeview channels. Tuning your TV will take about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Once your TV is done tuning, save the channels to start watching. 
  5. For Freeview HD TV, check if the HD channels are available. HD channels start with BBC One at 101. 

Setting Up A Freeview Recorder or Set-Top Box

If you are using a newer model of a Samsung Smart TV and would need to connect it to a Freeview recorder or set-top box, here is the process you should follow:

  1. With a coaxial cable, connect your set-top box to your TV aerial. On your box, you will find a socket marked with: “RF in,” “Antenna,” “Aerial” or “Ant in.”
  2. Use an HDMI cable to connect your set top box or recorder to your TV. 
  3. Power up your TV and your set top box. Wait for your smart TV to detect the box or go to the corresponding HDMI or AV channel (HDMI1, HDMI2, AV1, etc.)
  4. For Freeview Play boxes, connect your box/recorder to the internet.
  5. You will then be prompted to tune your box to find the available channels. Tuning your TV will take about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Once your TV is done tuning, save the channels to start watching. 
  7. For Freeview HD TV, check if the HD channels are available. HD channels start with BBC One at 101. 
  8. Use your Freeview remote control to check out all available channels.

Don’t know how to tune in a Samsung TV? Check out this guide from Freeview UK!

Meanwhile, if you find yourself still struggling to set up Freeview on your Samsung Smart TV, contact an expert from Aerialforce today!

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Having BT Youview Box Problems? Here’s What You Can Do To Fix It!

There’s nothing worse than encountering BT YouView box problems when you’re already comfortable in bed or on your couch while watching your favourite show or movie. It’s annoying, frustrating, and quite frankly, definitely a mood-killer! 

Fortunately, whether you’re dealing with signal loss, missing channels, distorted or pixelated picture, spotty audio, a faulty remote control or recording problems, BT Youview box troubleshooting is not as difficult as you’d think. 

So, if you’re looking to fix the issue on your Youview box yourself, you’ve come to the right place! Read on to find out just exactly what you can do to get back to your programmes as soon as possible!

The Most Common BT Youview Box Issues And How To Fix Them

Before you go and contact customer BT’s customer support, it is best for you to try and address your BT box issues yourself. Here are some of the most common BT Youview Box issues and how you can fix them:

Poor TV Signals

“Your TV signal is weak or lost.” 

If this message appears on your screen, try to figure out if the issue is isolated in one channel, or it’s affecting everything. If it is isolated to one channel, then it could be weak signal transmission from their end. However, If it’s the latter, then you may be experiencing intermittent aerial connection. 

If this is the case, you may want to check out the positioning of your TV aerial or the quality of your aerial installation. A few adjustments to your aerial may just fix this issue.

You may also want to try checking the signal quality in your BT box’s settings menu. If your set top box is receiving signals that are too strong, it is also likely for it to overload the Youview BT box, hence causing poor TV signals. If you think this is the problem, try reducing the signal level to 85 or 90%. You may also use a TV Signal attenuator to address this issue. 

Missing channels on your BT TV box could also be a result of poor TV reception. If this is the case, perform the same troubleshooting steps above. 

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Audio or Video Issues

If you are experiencing pixelated or broken up pictures and delayed or missing audio, restart your TV system. Your set top box and TV probably just need a quick reset to start working properly again. 

However, if restarting your device does not work, then you could be having network issues. 

If you are having network or broadband connection issues, make sure the issue isn’t from the service provider’s end or check if your phone line is working. If neither of these is the root of the issue, restart your BT Hub.

Many network problems are often fixed by simply restarting the connection, so there is a likely chance that you will be able to resolve your broadband issues this way. After restarting, check if the lights on your hub are powered on. 

BT Box Is Not Working At All

If your BT Youview is frozen or stuck on loading, all you have to do is restart your BT Box. If this does not do the trick, then your device may be due for a software update. 

To check for a software update, follow the steps below:

  • Press the YouView button, select settings
  • Go to the Information & Reset sub-menu. 
  • Select Software Information.
  • Click Update Software.

If this does not work, you may have to do a full factory reset. However, when you reset your BT box, you may lose your existing recordings. To prevent this from happening, try resetting your device on maintenance mode

No Blinking Lights

If there are no lights on your BT Youview box or box connectors, it is either not working, or not receiving enough power. 

Check if the power is switched on and if everything is securely connected. If you find that neither is the issue, you may have to replace your connectors and powerline adapters. 

Stuck On Maintenance Mode

When you try to start the box and see that it is stuck on the red light or on maintenance mode, immediately try restarting the box. If this does not work, press the arrow button on the box to enter maintenance mode. Follow the prompt and check if the indicator light is blue. 

If this does not work, you may have to do a hard reset. 

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Recording Issues

Recording issues are normally caused by poor broadband connection or poor Freeview signal. To make sure you successfully record a programme or channel, you have to ensure that the channel you want to record can be viewed properly. 

Make sure that your BT Youview Box stays on during the whole duration of your recording. Turning it off will also prevent you from recording anything. 

Lastly, check the list of your scheduled recordings on your My TV menu. Any overlaps will cause problems for your recordings.

Remote Control Is Not Working

Now, this one is quite simple. In most cases, all you need to get your remote control working again is a fresh set of batteries. 

Also, check for the connection between your remote and the TV box. If the light on your remote control is blinking, but the TV box is not responding, you may have to reboot your TV Box. However, if this is not the case, you may want to reset, or worse replace your remote control.

What Happens When None Of The Troubleshooting Methods Work?

If none of the troubleshooting methods above work, you may have to replace altogether your BT YouView box. If you think your box is still salvageable but are not entirely sure on how to fix the issue, ask an aerial TV professional from your neighbourhood or from companies like AerialForce to assess your BT box and TV aerial, and address these issues themselves. 

Final Thoughts

Save yourself the frustration and stress that comes with being to address any issues that cut into your TV viewing and leisure time! Keep these troubleshooting methods handy to make sure you’re ready the next time you experience any of these issues! 

How Do I Find the Nearest TV Transmitter to My Postcode?

TV towers aren’t just tall skyscrapers that you admire from a distance. Besides adding to the city skyline, they have a vital role in making sure your favourite soap reaches your TV. They do the grunt work of making sure every home with a TV aerial gets their Freeview channels. With over 18 million households using Freeview, you can see why it takes a whole network of transmitters to reach every neighbourhood. In summary, they’re the reason you’re able to watch Frasier, Line of Duty, and Normal People.

Unfortunately, you might not experience your shows the way you want to because of technical problems. Like all technology, a little bit of know-how can go a long way. Here are a couple of questions to help you understand your TV aerial and TV transmitter a bit better: 

Why Can’t I Watch My Shows? 

Even with great reception, you can lose channels a little bit over time. It is the reality of the cable cutter experience. If you have problems with your TV channels, first check if they are available in your area. You can do this by visiting the Freeview website and typing in your postcode to see what channels reach your neighbourhood. If the list online and channels on your TV do not match, then there are three possible problems: 

  1. Faulty transmitter
  2. Faulty aerial
  3. Signal disruptions (obstructions, heavy rainfall, etc.)

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Faulty Transmitter 

If you are struggling to get reception, check your local transmitter through BBC’s or Freeview’s site. You can see the active towers near you. You need to enter your postcode and house number to get accurate information. The checker will show you a map of your area and the nearest TV transmitter and its current status, whether it’s good, varied, or faulty.

If a TV transmitter near me is not working, it would be red. I can look around for the nearest TV transmitter to me in the green/good to try to connect to their service. Its coverage should reach me for it to be a proper replacement.

If you have a faulty transmitter, try to look for a new one within the area. These TV towers often overlap in urban areas, so you can quickly remedy the reading by adjusting your aerial. If there are no other towers near you, you may have to wait until it is up and running again. 

Faulty Aerial 

The next thing you should consider when the TV towers have no problems is your own aerial. Aerials are fickle things. They need to face the right direction and to be in the proper angle before you can enjoy your channels. 

On top of that, outdoor aerials have to brave the elements. A torrential downpour of rain could affect your aerial’s position, making it harder to receive any signal. Indoor aerials are no better. While they don’t experience the same wear and tear, they are not that strong. Other types of signal interference could affect your aerial.

Try to test out different positions for your indoor or outdoor aerial. Try to see if the quality of your show becomes clearer or not. If you have no luck making it work with the right angle and direction, it might be time to replace it. Check out 

Environment Issues

Before you replace your aerial, try to inspect your surroundings. There might be environmental changes that affect your reception. Are there new trees, buildings, or posts? Just because you do not see these changes in your immediate area, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. 

People who live in valleys and wooded areas are more sensitive to this. A TV transmitter doesn’t cover these areas evenly. Most homes here depend on relay transmitters. If the relay transmitter near you has problems, it could affect your viewing experience as well. 

How Can I Improve My Signal?

Improving your signal starts with addressing the previous problems. Even if you do not lose your channels, those steps can help you get better reception. You can upgrade your aerials with models that can handle interference better. 

You can switch between transmitters. For example, the nearest TV transmitter to my postcode in Surrey is Freeview’s Reigate transmitter, but Crystal Palace is south enough for my aerial to pick up. I could try Crystal Palace even though it’s farther because it has more channels. The distance is not the only thing that affects your reception, so a transmitter that is farther but offers more channels might be more effective. 

Since not every area may have a tower, I could also check maps for TV transmitters near me and not the nearest TV transmitters to me. There is a difference. Instead of looking at your postcode, focus on the miles instead. It will give me more things to try, and from there I can compare the different signals. It can be an excellent benchmark. 

You may opt to get a TV signals booster. However, signal boosters have a history of mixed results since they can sometimes get the wrong signals. Read more about signal boosters here

Where Is My Nearest TV Transmitter?

There are several ways you can look for your nearest TV transmitter. You can check Ofcom’s transmitter location maps on their website for the digital switchover plans. You can get the names of the transmitters and towers and look it up in Google maps. 

You can also check the UK Free TV website for news on transmitter repair work and Freeview transmitters across the country. Take note of the direction it is in and adjust your aerial accordingly.

So how do you know if the TV transmitter you found is the right one? There are two ways you can do it. The first is to compare your aerial with your neighbour and the second is to look up your postcode.

Look At Your Neighbour’s Aerial

People who value their privacy might feel uncomfortable at the idea of posting small details of themselves online. When you enter information online, the cookies may remember them. You can always opt to clear your cookies history to remove personal information online. 

If you do not want to check your postcode, you can do the age-old method of following the crowd. Look at your neighbour’s homes and see what direction their outdoor aerials face and follow suit. All aerials try to look towards the TV transmitter.

You can try to check 5 different homes to see if there are other key directions. Pay close attention to the houses who had theirs professionally done. They have the ideal direction and position. You could also ask around if you are close to your neighbours. 

Now, this method will not help in areas with relay transmitters. Large outdoor aerials may face the main transmitter while the smaller indoor aerials go towards the relay transmitters. In this situation, trial and error is the best way to figure out which one is best. 

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Look Up Your Postcode

All transmitter maps require your postcode. To get precise information, you may have to give that along with your house number if your neighbourhood is big. Remember to clear your cookies history if you include your house number as a precaution. Enter these details on the online TV transmitter maps website to see which one is closest to you. 

When you input your postcode, take note of the distance between you and the tower. TV aerials do not have a lot of coverage. While they may seem close on the map, the numbers on your antenna may beg to differ. 

For people who live in rural areas be wary of aerials that advertise 80 miles and more for their range. The upper end of that should also be an outdoor aerial, not an indoor one. Advertisers tend to stretch their specs, so conservative estimates are more likely to be true. 

Which Way Should I Point My TV Aerial?

Always point your TV aerial in the direction of your TV transmitter. You can use a compass, to match the coordinates on the maps. Or use Google maps and rotate to properly orient yourself.

Now, there is an exception to this rule. It is when you have a clear obstruction in that same direction. Massive buildings, posts, trees, and other similar things block the signals for your TV aerial. Try to look for a clear space to install your antenna. 

In urban areas, signal interference is also common. The signals from cars, homes, and businesses can affect your reception. Try to avoid those as well. 

The same rules apply for your indoor aerial. Stay close to windows and avoid significant obstructions. Keep your aerial away from other devices that might produce signals that conflict with your aerial. Try to keep your aerials as high as possible too. 

Where Are TV Transmitters Typically Located?

Ofcom regulates where the TV transmitters are so there will be minimal interference. Besides that, there is little information about the factors that go into their location. Most of them tend to be in populated areas. In the countryside, they stay near the central regions to get the most coverage. Since TV transmitters have minimal coverage in these types of areas, most people opt for satellite dishes instead. 

How Can I Check The TV Signal Strength In My Area?

With no extra gadgets, the best way to test for TV signal strength is to have all the channels listed in the TV guide website. They already took into account the loss for your area. If it says you should get 122 channels, but you only get 80, then the signal strength is weak. You can manually try different setups until you find the majority, if not all, of the channels.  

You can also buy an aerial signal meter. Detach the coaxial cord from your TV set and input it to your meter and attach your meter cord to your TV. Rotate your aerial while you take note of the signal strengths each time. The more LED lights go green, the stronger the signal. You can do this several times until you narrow it down to the best angle. 

Over the counter meters have mixed results, so try to buy the ones your friends and family use. You can also opt to get a professional to do this. They have the gear and equipment to get the best TV signal strength. 

No matter how great the tech, TV aerials still have a bit of guesswork. Online TV guides and transmitter maps are excellent references for you to check your reception, but the ever-changing environment prevents this from being a fool-proof plan. Hopefully, with a lot of patience and luck, you can see the difference and return to your regular programs in no time. 

If doing all of these steps still doesn’t give you a proper reception, then it may be time for you to call the professionals. We, at Aerialforce, can come to your house on the same day of your distress call so you can continue to watch your favourite shows without any problems.

How to Get Freeview Channels Back

Freeview TV is very popular in the UK as it gives its users access to the nation’s favourite channels such as BBC One, ITV Channel, and ITV Channel 4, and many more for absolutely no cost. However, since we are now in the age of wireless where everything is signal-dependent, there will be times where we will experience problems on our TV reception. Sometimes, you may wake up and find that some of your freeview channels disappeared overnight. There are a lot of factors that may have caused such problems. 

In this guide, we will show you steps that you can try to recover your missing channels. But before we proceed to the guide, we listed the possible reasons why your freeview channels disappeared overnight. It is essential to know these factors, so you’ll know what step you need to take to recover these channels.

Possible Reasons for Your Missing Channels

You Are Using Freeview Lite/Freeview Light

First of all, if for some reason you switched to the Freeview Light transmitter instead of the actual Freeview, you will certainly lose some of the popular channels such as Viva or Dave. Freeview Lite or Freeview Light is a reduced version of Freeview that transmits only a limited number of channels to your TV. Freeview Light only carries half the amount of channels a standard Freeview can.

Changes on Your Local TV Transmitter

Another possible reason why some people lose access to some Freeview channels is the changes to the TV transmitters across the UK. There will be times when the hundreds of transmitters all over the UK will need to be re-engineered to allow for a big change. In fact, this 2020, the 700 MHz spectrum will be auctioned off to provide a boost for 4G and 5G mobile signals. Consequently, TV transmitters need to be altered to allow for this change and make the transition as smooth as possible.

Changes to Freeview

Freeview allows you to get over 70 channels and 15 HD channels, including your favourite channels such as BBC One, ITV Channel, and ITV Channel 4. You can get the full list of channels available on their website

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Freeview TV often makes updates and changes which affects customers’ accessibility to some channels on Freeview. You will get a notification from Freeview if there is a change in your area. You should get an on-screen message about the update or you can check if there’s a change here.

Similar to the big change for TV transmitters this 2020, Freeview will have to adapt and make some changes in their system. Specifically, some airwaves used by Freeview are being relocated to allow for boost for 4G and 5G signals and other new mobile broadband services. For some areas, aerial adjustment may be necessary to adapt with the changes. You may need to contact the Freeview Advice Line for help, or you may contact professional aerial engineers from Aerialforce if you need support.

Changes in Your Area’s Coverage

Coverage, or the number of free view channels, varies depending on your location. Some channels are not available in some areas because the signals and frequencies can’t reach them. If you moved to a new flat, there is a chance that some of the channels that you could access before in your old house are no longer accessible in your new house. 

Poor TV Signal Reception

Some TV channels have strong signals while some don’t. If you have poor TV signal reception, you may easily lose access to some channels with weak signals. People who live in a low-signal area install a high quality TV aerial to improve their signal reception. If you think this is your problem, you can contact Aerialforce to help you get the best TV aerial for your location.

TV Signal Interference in Your Area

Aside from the location, TV signal interference may significantly affect your signal reception. Interference happens when other signals in the air get mixed up with your Freeview signals. When your TV aerial receives the signal affected by interference, you may encounter problems such as TV pixelation, noise, or even loss of some channels. 

Faulty or Broken TV Aerial

Of course, if you have a faulty TV aerial, your TV signal reception is affected. Additionally, due to the possibility of TV transmitters being re-engineered, your TV aerial may need to be updated or realigned to continue getting all the channels you had before.

What Can You Do To Recover Your Missing Channels

Now that you know the possible reasons for your missing channels, we listed below some steps that you can follow to recover them.

Check if the Channel is Available in Your Area

First of all, check if the channel is available in your area. Enter your postcode in an availability checker. If the channel is available, proceed to the other steps. If you can’t see the channel in the list, the channel may no longer be available in your area. This issue could be due to changes in the transmitter or some updates from Freeview. We recommend you to contact Freeview Advice Line to assist you with your problem.

Check for Transmitter Faults

You can check for faults in your area using the transmitter checker tool. Just enter your postcode and it will check for problems in your location. Again, if there seems to be a problem on the transmitter, you may contact Freeview Advice Line to help you with the issue. If there is no problem in your local transmitter, then the problem may be in your TV system. Proceed to the next steps.

Check All Cable Connections

Check the back of your Freeview Box if the aerial cable is securely connected to the Aerial In/Antenna In port. Check also if the same cable is connected to the aerial itself. If your aerial is a powered indoor aerial, check if the aerial is connected to the power supply. Make sure that the aerial is turned on.

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Check Your Signal

If you can get signals from your TV aerial but can’t access some channels, try checking the signal as it might not be strong enough. You can check the signal quality by selecting Setting from the Main Menu. From the Signal & Connection, select signal quality. 

If the signal quality is below 50%, you may encounter problems such as picture pixelation. If the channel you’re looking for has a weak signal, your aerial might not be receiving the frequencies of that channel. We recommend you to read our article on how to improve your tv reception

Check for Signal Interference

Sometimes, your poor TV signal reception may be caused by a TV signal interference. There are a lot of signals that may affect your signal reception. This may be caused by an interference via 4G, interference via neighbouring transmitters, or interference via impulse noise. 

TV interruptions may also be caused by external factors such as weather changes and technical issues, which may be out of your control. If you want to know more about this, read our article about Freeview TV Interference.

Check Your TV Aerial

If you have a faulty TV aerial, you may have a problem receiving TV signals. Try checking your TV aerial, or if you are not sure about the problem of your aerial, get a professional aerial engineer. 

Try also considering if you are using the right aerial for your location. If you are living in an area where the signal reception is weak, you might want to consider getting a better TV aerial.

Retune Your TV

Now that you have checked all other factors, it is possible that your TV just needs to be retuned. You can retune your TV by going to the Settings from the Main Menu, then select Signal & Connection. Afterwards, select TV Channels and choose Retune Channels.

Retuning your TV may take a couple of minutes. Once it is done, try checking the missing channel using your remote. If the channel is still not there, try doing a manual retune. Manual retune allows you to input the correct channel numbers or frequencies one by one and store them in the memory of your box.

If you tried all the steps, but the issue still persists, you may be dealing with a bigger problem. It is best to leave such problems to the experts. Aerialforce can help you solve any issue regarding your TV aerials and signal reception. Avail Aerialforce’s same-day services, and our professional aerial engineers will be there to help you asap.

How to Update Sky Box

Sky Box Software Updates

Sky Boxes receive software updates from time to time. Software updates are delivered through satellite to make changes in your Sky Box. These changes are usually improvements to the performance of your Sky Box such as new exciting features and bug fixes for system problems so you should welcome them with open arms. However, updating can be quite a tedious process if you don’t know how. That is why we have created this article to help you on how to update your sky box.

Sky Boxes, whether it is a Sky+ HD box or a Sky Q box, get updates and install them automatically. However, these Sky Boxes become unreliable and glitches when they are switched off or disconnected for a long period of time. For instances like this, you have to manually update them.

How to Update Your Sky Box Manually

Due to the advancement in TV technology and the rise of TV on-demand, manually updating your Sky Box seems to be a thing of the past. However, there are some instances where you still need to update it manually before you can watch with your TV. Here is a guide on how to manually update Sky Box to the latest software. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for both the Sky+HD box and Sky Q box.

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Updating Your Sky+HD Box

You can download your Sky Com Software Update for your Sky+HD box by following the instructions below:

  1. Press the standby button using your remote.
  2. Switch off the Sky+HD Box and disconnect it from the power supply. Also, turn off the other devices connected to the box. Wait for at least a minute.
  3. On the top panel of the box, press and hold the backup button. While pressing the backup button, turn the power supply back on.
  4. Keep pressing the backup button until the box resets. You’ll know this when all four LEDs in front of the box light up. You should now see the software update screen on your TV screen.

Note: If all the four LEDs still do not light up even after pressing the backup button for 30 seconds, repeat this step. If the lights still do not appear, it is best to ask for professional help. Aerialforce has Satellite TV Engineers all over the UK who can help you with your Sky Box.

  1. Do not disconnect the Sky+HD Box from the power supply or satellite dish while the software is updating. Doing so may cause permanent damage to your Sky Box. While waiting for the search and download to finish, we advise you to switch the TV to another screen to avoid screen burn.

Note: The software update screen will stay on the screen for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the download finishes. If the download seems to be stuck, try disconnecting the Sky Box from the power supply. Wait for 5 minutes, then repeat all the steps.

  1. You will know the software update has finished when the four LED lights disappear. The box will then switch to standby.
  2. Wait for at least 3 minutes before switching the Sky+HD Box back on. A green LED will light up on the front panel of your box. You can now watch your favourite shows and videos on your TV.

Updating Your Sky Q Box

You can download the Sky Q Software Update for your Sky Q box by following the instructions below:

  1. Go to the Settings of your Sky Q box. Under the System Info, highlight Software version.
  2. Choose Setup
  3. Start the download by clicking Software download.
  4. The search and download take about 10 minutes to finish. Make sure that the box is not turned off or disconnected from the power supply while the software is updating.
  5. You can check the status of the Software update by going to the Settings. Choose System Info then highlight Software version.
  6. When it says “Software update successful” it means your Sky Q Box is now updated to the latest software version. You just need to wrap up your download by pressing the Standby button on your remote.
  7. Your box will then restart. Once it restarts, follow the on-screen instructions. Your Sky Q Box should then be on the latest software version, and you can now watch your favourite shows on your TV.

Note: If you are seeing hard disk error messages on your screen, you need to know how to reboot Sky Q Box. Hard disk errors prevent your TV to set or play videos and recordings. It may also hinder your TV to search for features like videos on demand. Click here to learn how to reset q box.

If these steps do not work, you may be dealing with a bigger problem. We advise you to ask for professional help and leave these problems to the experts. Aerialforce has Satellite TV Engineers who have years of experience in offering same-day satellite TV services.  Just search our site or contact us, and we’ll be there to assist you right away.

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How To Get Freeview

Freeview is a subscription-free service that allows its users to access over 70 live TV and radio channels. It is the best television platform in the United Kingdom as it enables its users to receive 95% of the nation’s favourite TV. Unlike other subscription packages, Freeview does not require any monthly obligation. For this reason, most people consider Freeview as the ideal choice for their homes.

How To Get Freeview For Your Home

Freeview is available all around the UK so Freeview channels are easily accessible in your home. To receive these Freeview signals, you need a good TV aerial. Getting a good and compatible TV aerial is essential as it plays a vital role in the strength of your signal reception. TV aerials that have poor signal reception can lead to signal problems such as picture pixelation, missing channels, or stuttering sounds.

Aside from a TV aerial, you need a TV that is compatible with Freeview. Freeview may already be built-in if you just recently bought your TV. However, if your TV is older than 2010, chances are that a separate Freeview set-top box is needed. Once you have everything that you need, you are now ready to set-up your Freeview. Don’t worry because we will discuss below how to get freeview whether your TV has built-in Freeview or not.

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How to Get Freeview Using Your Freeview-ready TV

Here’s a guide on how to set-up a TV with built-in Freeview:

  1. Connect your aerial cable to the TV.
  2. Plug in the TV and turn on the TV using the TV remote.
  3. Tune your TV to find the available Freeview channels. You can usually find this option in the Menu or Settings, but different brands may have different settings. It is best to check the manual if you can’t find it.
  4. Wait for around 3 to 5 minutes. Once the tuning is finished, you can save the channels and start watching.

How to Get Freeview Using a Set-Top Box

Here’s a guide on how to set-up Freeview if you are using a set-top box or Freeview recorder.

  1. Connect your aerial cable to the set-top box or Freeview recorder. There is an aerial socket on the box which should be marked RF in, Antenna, Aerial, or Ant in.
  2. Connect your set-top box or recorder to your TV using an HDMI cable. The HDMI cable is usually connected to the port in the box marked HDMI 1. The arrangement of sockets may vary across products.
  3. Turn on the set-top box or recorder using its remote.
  4. Put your TV on standby.
  5. Turn it on using your TV remote. Make sure to go to the MENU and change SOURCE to HDMI. Most TVs will automatically detect your set-top box or recorder. If this does not happen, go to the AV1 channel using your remote control.
  6. Most boxes are ready to automatically start tuning. You can manually do this using the remote for the set-top box or recorder. You can usually find the tuning option in the Menu or Settings, but different brands may have different settings. It is best to check the manual if you can’t find it.
  7. Once your box is tuned, you can save the channels and use your set-top box remote to explore the range of channels.

Connecting to Freeview Through Wi-Fi

Internet connection is not a prerequisite to access Freeview. However, if you have a Freeview Play device and want to access catch-up on-demand content, you will need an Internet connection.

What is Freeview Play?

Freeview Play is essentially Freeview with added extra features and elements to TV viewing. Freeview Play allows you to watch catch-up on-demand programmes from CBS’ UK channel portfolio, which comprises CBS Reality, CBS Reality+1. CBS Drama, and CBS Action. Freeview Play also integrates a roll-back function that allows you to watch, pause, record, and rewind programmes that have aired in the past seven days. Freeview Play also gives you the option of topping up with subscription streaming services such as Netflix, NOW TV, and Prime Video.

Connecting Your Freeview Play Device To The Internet

Smart TVs now include the option to connect using Wi-Fi. To be able to access catch-up on-demand programmes, you should have an Internet connection of at least 2 mbps. You can connect your Freeview Play Device to your broadband using Wi-Fi or an Ethernet Cable. 

All Freeview Play devices have built-in Wi-Fi receivers, so connecting the device to your home broadband would be easy. However, you can also connect your Freeview Play device to your broadband using the Ethernet Cable for more reliable connection and streaming.

If you choose to use an Ethernet Cable, you should go from the Menu to the Network Settings of the device and select Direct or Ethernet connection. You will then be prompted to enter your home network details.

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How To Get Freeview Using Your Mobile Device

You can also watch your favourite Freeview shows wherever you are using your mobile device. You can watch live or on-demand by simply downloading the Freeview app from Google Play or App Store. Once you’ve downloaded the app, you can now browse shows from BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5, and UKTV Play even when you’re not at your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Get a Freeview Without an Aerial?

Yes and no. Technically you can still use your Freeview play device by connecting it to the Internet. However, you can only watch catch-up TV or TV on demand through this method. You wouldn’t be able to access Freeview’s digital terrestrial service since it is not yet currently available on the Internet. The only way to watch live TV from Freeview is to have an aerial.  

What If I Move House?

As long as there is a transmitting tower nearby, there are Freeview signals. You can take your TV, set-top box or recorder, and your TV aerial when you move to your new home. Just make sure to install your aerial again and set-up your TV system and Freeview as normal. Make sure to tune the channels again since channels may vary from one location to another.

What Channels are Available on Freeview?

Freeview allows you to watch at least 70 to over a hundred TV channels all at no monthly cost or contract. Freeview offers a lot of famous channels such as BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Four, ITV Channel, 4Seven, More4, etc. You can also access news channels such as BBC News in HD, BBC Parliament, Sky News, and RT (Russia Today) in HD. Lastly, there are also channels aimed for children such as CBBC and CBeebies, CITV, Pop, and Ketchup TV.

It is essential to note that channels may vary from one location to another. Your access to some channels may depend on the quality of your aerial. Channel lists also occasionally change, so make sure to update your equipment.

I can’t pick up any Freeview channels, what do I do?

If you are experiencing problems such as picture freezing and pixelation, noise, or total loss of signal, it is most probably a problem with your aerial. Make sure that your aerial is not broken and is properly installed. If you are in a low signal area, you may need to invest in a better outdoor aerial, as they are the best for picking up signals. If you are not confident in installing an aerial, we recommend you to ask for professional help.

A Comprehensive Guide On Your YouView Box

Are you constantly bogged down by stressful days at work or school? Are you struggling to keep your kids entertained during long periods indoors? Don’t know what to do on weekends? Easy. Invest in your home entertainment setup. Consider buying a YouView box, for example, to improve your days off. Bring back the late Saturday mornings while eating your breakfast in front of the TV. Relive movie nights with family and friends during long breaks. Relaxing in front of the TV can bring you back to the simpler days of your childhood. Sometimes, all we need is to destress for a couple of hours to replenish your energy.

Before purchasing a YouView box, it is best to learn about the nitty-gritty details to see if it fits with your current or future lifestyle. This list is your friendly guide to understanding everything about the YouView box before your purchase.

What Does A YouView Box Do?

A YouView box is a set-top box, a device which converts the signals  into something that your TV can read and display. Unlike the set-top box of old, YouView tries to give you the best of both worlds: digital and IP TV. The box can connect to your aerial for free digital channels, your broadband for IP TV and other subscription-based programs. It is TV on-demand in every sense of the word. 

On your YouView box, you can pause, rewind, fast forward, record and save shows. Say good-bye to missing parts of your show because you had to take a call or go to the bathroom. No more waiting for scheduled recaps, you can catch up when you are free. This way, you don’t go missing grand reveals because you have work on their regular timeslot.

You can also create a customised library and add personal touches like reminders for things you watch for a better viewing experience. The YouView Box has features that people who solely use online streaming platforms are used to enjoying. It is definitely a step-up from what you grew up with.

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What Are The Different Types Of YouView Boxes? 

YouView has three main types of boxes: YouView, YouView+, and YouView+ Ultra HD. With these three boxes, there are two manufacturers: Humax and Huawei. The quality and features are the same across the board for these two manufacturers. It is a matter of company partnerships. Humax models are usually for BT, and Huawei models are for TalkTalk. The only difference would be the company logos and add-ons that comes with the box. 

When deciding between the different types of YouView boxes, the best version depends on your setup. While the YouView+ Ultra HD has the most power to accommodate your viewing needs, you cannot enjoy the HD channels without an HD TV. The YouView box is the most affordable among the three. However, it lacks some of the features that people have become accustomed to using like recording live shows. In conclusion, it’s really a matter of preference and your budget.

Is YouView The Same As Freeview?

YouView and Freeview are similar, but not the same. Youview has access to Freeview, but not vice versa. The initial Freeview model focuses on free digital channels without any other hook-ups. Its access depends on aerial connection. You can check what is available in your area with Freeview’s online TV guide. You can get channels like BBC, ITV Channel, Channel 4, Channel 5, and other live TV broadcasts

YouView, on the other hand, has access to all of these Freeview channels and can be plugged to broadbands for IP TV services like BT TV and TalkTalk TV, and other subscription services. YouView depends on decent aerial signals and internet service to deliver its wide range of features. 

Can You Get The YouView Box Without A Subscription?

You can buy a YouView box on its own without any accompanying subscriptions from BT, TalkTalk, and Plusnet. It would mean very limited services though. However, you can use it with your regular aerial set up. If you have a limited budget for home entertainment, buying the YouView box on its own might be best. However, this goes back to the question of what you want from your entertainment set up and how you use it. 

Pros For No Subscription

The thing that works in your favour when you opt for no subscription is that you don’t have to deal with a contract. When you find yourself busy at work, and you do not get a chance to watch TV, you cannot opt-out of paying your monthly fee just because you did not use it. It might be the choice to make if you, or the people you live with, have busy schedules. 

Cons For No Subscription

However, if you do not opt for any subscription, you are under utilising your YouView box. If the YouView+ or YouView+ Ultra HD appeal to you, their recording and storage memory is wasted. While free digital channels have a lot to offer, it cannot satisfy the pop culture nerd or film buff in you. Original content from Netflix and similar platforms are becoming more and more popular. Those shows will never pop up on regular channels. 

What Are The Subscriptions Available With The YouView Box?

Your YouView box can get subscriptions from TV on-demand services. They have services like Netflix and Amazon Prime that have a mix of shows with rights reserved and original content. You can also have access to subscriptions to Now TV, UKTV Play, STV player, S4C, ITV Hub, and BBC iPlayer where you can catch up to tv shows you might have missed. Even the young ones in your family have a place with subscriptions. Pop, milkshake!, Ketchup TV, and Disney+ are examples of what you can get for your kids. 

Multiple Devices

Most of these online subscriptions have apps and websites that you can access on other devices. By getting these subscriptions, you not only expand your home entertainment but also your viewing experience on the go. 

How Can I Buy A YouView Box?

There are three ways on how you can get a YouView Box. 

Direct Purchase

The first is purchasing it directly from different retailers like Amazon, Argos, Currys, John Lewis, Richer Sounds, and Humax, among many others. You can also find second-hand YouView boxes at half the retail price, but that comes with risks. 

Purchase As A Bundle With A TV

The second is purchasing it with a range of Sony Android TVs that you can buy from Currys, John Lewis, and Richer Sounds. You have to double-check if the TV is compatible with the box, you can discuss this with your local sales representative.

Purchase As A Bundle With A Broadband

The third is to buy it in a bundle with broadbands like BT, TalkTalk, and Plusnet. There are different bundles, and the prices and models vary depending on how much internet you plan to get with it. HD channels and heavy recording require more from your broadband, so plan your purchase accordingly. 

How much is a YouView Box?

It is difficult to give exact numbers since there are different ways to get it, and they come with promotions that are subject to change. For the basic YouView box model without the recording feature, the average cost is around £62-100. Advanced models can range from £150-£170. When purchasing it along with a broadband bundle, monthly payments without the setup fee can vary from £22-£58

These numbers are estimates, it’s best to consult their websites for more information. 

How do I Set Up A YouView box?

To set up your YouView box, you need the following materials: a YouView box, remote control, AAA batteries, power lead, HDMI cable, aerial cable, and an ethernet cable. When you buy your YouView box, it includes the remote control, power lead/ power supply cord, HDMI cable, and ethernet cable. However, you may opt to buy the cables on your own if it does not fit your setup. Try not to force the configuration, play around with it and see what best suits your space.

Also, don’t forget that YouView uses Freeview and not Freesat channels. You need an aerial instead of a satellite dish. If you have an indoor or outdoor aerial, you can proceed, if not, have an aerial installed—select indoor aerials for flats and houses that prohibit outdoor aerials. If you have decent reception, a properly installed indoor aerial will work just fine. However, if you live in an area with rough terrain, lots of buildings, and the TV transmitter is too far–an outdoor aerial will work better. 

Insert the aerial cable to the TV box, then connect the HDMI cable between the box and the TV. Afterwards, you can join the ethernet cable between the box and your internet router. Insert the power lead to the back of the YouView box and the socket, and then you are good to go. 

YouView can be an excellent investment for your home entertainment setup. You can have general access to Freeview channels like BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, and Dave. While you can enjoy these free features, you can upgrade with different subscriptions like BT TV, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer. 

During dull afternoons with nothing to do, you can sit back, relax, and watch your favourite shows. It provides a flexible and enjoyable viewing experience. If you have aerial problems, you can depend on the broadband connection. If you have internet problems, you can switch over to the free channels. Channels cater to different kinds of people. From educational cartoons and children’s programs to reality TV and action movies, YouView provides entertainment for everyone in the household. 

What Is A Coaxial Cable and What Does It Do?

A coaxial cable or a coax is a type of cable that is used as transmission lines for radio frequency, video, and data signals. Traditionally, they have been used as feed lines to connect transmitters and receivers with antennas, internet connections, digital audio and cable television signals. 

This is why such cables are used in almost every home for television and internet connections, as well as in industrial settings for Local Area Networks. It is one of the most preferred types of cable because of its shielding and resistance to signal interferences from motors and other electronic equipment. 

It has multiple layers namely an inner conductor, an insulating layer, a conductive shielding and an insulating outer jacket. Most coaxial cables even have outer jackets that are UV, chemical, halogen and flame resistant, making it the best option, even for industrial settings. Its shielded design even allows for quick data transmission without succumbing to the interference or damage from outside or environmental factors.

They work by carrying data into the centre conductor while the surrounding layers of shielding (which is collectively known as the shield, restrict any attenuation loss and help reduce EMI. The first layer, meanwhile, provides distance and insulation between the core conductor and the outer layers. 

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What Does A Coaxial Cable Look Like?

Coax cables have a distinct thick, round shape due to its interior insulation layer. Because of its size, its look also differs significantly from other cable types. 

Coaxial cables come in many sizes, but the most common sizes are the RG-59, RG-11, and RG-6 cables. For non-industrial use, the most common coax cable used is the RG6 cable, while industrial installers, on the other hand, may use thicker cables like the RG11.

As for the colour, a coaxial cable normally comes in black, white or brown. 

Coaxial Cable Types and What Exactly They Are Used For

As mentioned above, coax cables are classified by their sizes. Here is a quick overview of what each coax cable type is used for. 

  • RG-6 Coaxial Cables – RG6 cables are ideal for television, the internet, and digital video. Because RG-6 cables are made with a different kind of shielding and have an impedance of 75 Ohm, they can carry GHz signals more effectively, making them best for tv aerials or domestic television, internet connections, and digital video signals.
  • RG-11 Coaxial Cables – Such cables are best used for HDTV. Because it offers a higher gauge which provides more space for signals to transfer, it is adept at transferring strong HD signals at high speed. It is also often used as a long-length backbone cable. End-users of RG-11 coax cables benefit from higher signal quality not just for TV, cable, and internet transmission.
  • RG-59 Coaxial Cables – This kind of cable is best for CCTV systems. While RG6 cables can run longer distances without loss to video signal, RG-59 cables are much convenient to work with. 
  • RF Coaxial Cables – An RF or Radio Frequency coaxial cable is used to carry radio frequency signals. These cables are the standard input cable on TV sets. It usually has a coax plug or pin, which you can simply plug to the RF input on the device. 

Coaxial Cable Connectors, Coaxial Splitters and Coaxial Ports

Cable Connectors

Coaxial cable connectors are used to connect your coax cable to another device while maintaining its shielding. These connectors could be classified into male or female. Male connectors have metal pins which protrude from the centre, while female connectors have a recessed hole where the pin is plugged into. 

These connectors are used for RF equipment, test instruments, radio, television and video signal, mobile phone connections, broadcast communications systems and many more. 

Coaxial Splitters

Because coaxial cable lines are produced to provide a signal to power a singular device, you will encounter a problem if you try using it to power more than one device. Coaxial splitters are used when there is more than one device that requires a signal. True to its name, it is designed to split the signal from one coaxial cable towards several lines to connect to multiple devices. 

Coaxial Ports

A coax port is a single female RCA connector on a device. It will most likely be labelled as “coaxial,” “digital out” or “digital in.” This port is usually colour-coded orange or black, where a male coax is to be plugged in. 

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Coaxial Cables

Coaxial cables are pretty advantageous. Such cables are inexpensive compared to fibre optic cables, durable, easy to install, and easy to expand with a cable extension kit. Additionally, coax cables have good resistance to EMI and RFI, lower error rates, as well as a transfer capacity of approximately 10mbps. 

Moreover, coaxial cables are beneficial for both analogue and digital transmission, as compared to twisted pair cables and fibre optic cables, which are only capable of supporting analogue and digital, respectively.

However, coaxial cables still have a few drawbacks. Some of which come to mind are its susceptibility to total system or network failure, bulkiness, stiffness, and vulnerability to security breaches. 

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got a much clearer understanding on what a coaxial cable is for, you’re probably ready to start on that DIY project that has got you looking up coaxial cables in the first place. However, if you are planning on installing a TV aerial, setting up a CCTV system in your home, or simply looking to extend your tv broadband, it would probably much safer for you to put the coaxial cable down and let the professionals work on it. This will not only ensure your safety but also save you all the frustration of trying to get everything done yourself!