The outdoor antenna is an integral part of modern communication systems. They provide the channel or the medium through which radio waves that energize our wireless devices are transmitted and received.
Among factors that affect the performance of Outdoor TV antenna, size is often discussed and taken wrongly. This article explains the correlation between outdoor antenna size and value, clears some popular misconceptions, and looks closely at the aspect of choosing the best antenna- size.
Does Outdoor antenna Size really Matter?
Among the widely held beliefs is the fact that a larger antenna has a longer range and better performance. Outdoor antennas can surely be able to capture more radio waves and therefore they could extend the communication range.
However, a bigger outdoor antenna may not be the best solution in your case. What makes it so? Besides, you can understand what is critical for the functioning of antennas as well. Every part of the antenna has a specific role, which it performs with perfection thus making the antenna connect us with the internet and other devices without a wire.
After understanding this fact, you are free to decide on your choice of the best outdoor TV antenna Australia for you.
Antenna gain
An antenna with a larger surface area, as stipulated by the design, produces a stronger signal noise than a smaller one. This is because a large antenna is better at picking up more of the signal.
But one thing we need to understand about digital signals: either they show up or they do not. Unlike the case of old analog signals which were seen as fuzzy when weak, digital signals can be either clear when strong enough or completely absent when they’re not.
This is the reason why, you get a strong signal or no signal at all. Too much of the signal can be harmful as well and may jam your TV. That’s why some people may struggle with amplifiers—they can overburden the TV if it is not appropriately used.
The Antenna Size Puzzle
If you are concerned about the antenna size, the size should match the wavelength it is receiving. For lower frequencies, a large antenna is necessary.
For a good antenna, it should be twice the size of the wave you are trying to catch. Because of that some antennas have large ends at all.
Nevertheless, if the size of the antenna is reduced to a quarter or one-eighth the size of the wave, it will still capture a signal, but to a lesser degree. Now you know why small antennas also transmit, just with lesser quality.
Matching the frequency needs
The size of the antenna you use depends on the frequency you want to pick up and those used for the lower frequencies like VHF-Low channels serve larger antennas. And most will not go for giant antennas.
Nowadays, there are more broadcasts through the VHF-Low band but If you do not want to pick up channels through the VHF-Low band, then a large antenna might not be necessary. Many antennas are in the market that function just as efficiently for higher frequencies.
Here are the situations where bigger outdoor digital TV antennas are helpful:
- Longer Range: This feature allows them to propagate over long distances thus making them efficient in remote areas or places far from the sending station.
- Weaker Signals: When the area has a weak signal, making the antenna device bigger can produce a strong signal, which will improve reception and reduce signal difficulties.
- Higher Gain: When it comes to tasks that require greater signals like long-distance communication or satellite links, stronger antennas can pick up more signals.
- Directional Ability: Large antennas make the beams narrower and therefore allow communication between two points of choice and for tracking satellites.
- Less Interference: In places that have more signal noise, a large antenna may supply a stronger and clearer signal.
In these cases, bigger antennas improve signal capturing and sending it over long distances or in bad conditions.
Limitations of larger Outdoor TV antenna
Larger antennas may have many benefits including the signal strength and range, but there are situations when their suitability can be a limiting factor.
- Frequency Requirements: The size of the antenna is mostly influenced by the frequency of the signal it is designed to transmit or receive. In certain cases, a small antenna can be more powerful compared to a large one when used within a specific frequency range.
- Limited Space: In the case of an urban environment or where limited space is available, a large TV antenna installation may not be possible since that may be impractical. For instance, in the case of apartments, plenty of room to set up a large antenna may not be present.
- Cost Constraints: Bigger antennas, generally, tend to be more costly when it comes to buying, installing and maintaining them. When budget is a priority, purchasing a smaller antenna would be more practical.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Sometimes, a large antenna may be unsightly and not comply with the regulations or construction codes. In these scenarios, the smaller antennas can be the stars of the show.
Conclusion
In conclusion, large outdoor antennas for digital tv, although great for strong signals and long-distance coverage, do not always bring the best results. It could be that the smaller antennas are preferable because they occupy less space, cost less, and also look better. Also, this is worth taking into account how portable you want the antenna to be and what frequencies it needs to receive.
By being aware of these elements and having a bit of flexibility in terms of your antenna choice, you can get the best outdoor digital TV antenna Australia for you no matter if you need a large one that will give you a powerful signal, or a smaller one that will do what you need without taking too much space.
Read More: