It's A Log That Gets TV Signals!
Written: Sep 01 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Good Looking compared to yagis.
Cons: Sometimes you need more antenna.
The Bottom Line: Most of the time this will be an excellent antenna for your HDTV reception. It looks good too!
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| rbinck's Full Review: TERK TV-55 TERK Indoor/Outdoor Amplified TV Antenn... |
Introduction
HDTV antennas bring us back to the beginning of TV all over again. Sometimes it will require you to try various antennas to get satisfactory results. The Terk TV55 is no exception. Many times it will work superbly and other times it will be miserable.
Basic Description
The Terk TV55 looks like a big log. It has a gray plastic case that is intended to match the color of satellite dishes. The gray color is thought to match the sky color, I think. The size of the unit is about 4” x 3” oval by 46” long. If it can be installed on a balcony or under your eaves, it will almost disappear.
Technical Information
The design of the unit is one that utilized a proprietary Helical Coiled Broadband Single Element. I was told this helical element is intended to cause secondary signals (which would result in ghosts in analog TVs) to be canceled by the element. The 10db amplifier is built into the antenna to reduce any noise being introduced in a lead in cable. The unit has a power injector that you place in the cable at the other end near your TV or distribution amplifier. The dc power for the amplifier is sent up to the antenna via the RG6 cable used for a lead in.
Wiring
I have found that the use of RG6 cable is a must. The lighter RG58U that many stores sell for antenna lead in will not work satisfactory. Between the power loss being sent up to the antenna and the signal loss from the antenna, you end up severally limiting the reception of the unit. Just as RG6 is required for satellite operation due to the power being sent up to the LNBs, the Terk TV55 also requires RG6 cable to work properly. Also it is recommended the cable be no more 150 feet in length from the antenna to your TV or distribution amplifier. If you are planning on having one antenna service multiple TVs, I recommend an adjustable distribution amplifier.
Antenna Placement
Sometimes the antenna will work in a closet or in your attic. More often this will not be successful due to radiant barriers and aluminum coated insulation that tends to shield the signal. Placement at the highest point of your roof will be the preferred location usually, but over the air reception will vary greatly depending on factors that may not be clear to you. For example, if you have a large building near you it can reflect a fairly strong signal, even if the building is located on the opposite side of the antenna from where the station transmitter is located. Since the Terk TV55 is basically an omni-directional antenna, (it receives signals from all directions) a strong reflection from the rear can confuse your HDTV receiver. Your neighbor’s roof can cause you similar problems. Sometimes the only antenna that will work successfully is a directional antenna with a rotator, such as a Winegard PR-5030. The Terk is much better looking though, in my opinion.
Antenna Aiming
Even though the Terk TV55 is an omni-directional antenna, I have found some aiming of the antenna may be necessary to provide the optimum reception. I surmise this is due to the reflections rather than the initial signals being received. Certain orientations seem to work better. This may take a little time, especially if you are working by yourself. Some HDTV receivers have a signal strength meter or indicator to aid you in this effort and a buddy with a walkie-talkie or cell phone can really help.
Mounting
The Terk TV55 comes with a myriad of mounting hardware from mask mounting to some neat spools for mounting on balcony railings or the side of the house. The exact hardware you need will depend on how and where you decide to mount the unit. A satellite dish roof mount makes a great mast for the Terk TV55, just be sure to seal the mounting holes well if you use one of these.
Conclusion
I have installed several of the Terk TV55 antennas for HDTV applications with great results. I have also had to remove a couple and replace them a more costly solution. I wish I could guarantee you with great results, but antennas do not lend themselves to doing so. Sometimes an amplified set top antenna (rabbit ears) in the attic will work better than anything else will! Of the roof top units I have used, the Terk TV55 is one of the best.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
rbinck
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Member: Richard Binckley
Location: Houston, Texas
Reviews written: 125
Trusted by: 26 members
About Me:
Retired A/V professional, likes Hawaii and Classic Cars
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