How to Get the BEST TV Reception with My DTV in My New 2010 Camper

by Chad
(Omaha, NE)

I currently bought a new 22' HDTV for my camper. I have a Winegard antenna w/ the wingman upgrade. We went camping and couldn't get any kind of reception with our TV. The couple next to as had the same set-up but were able to get great reception with their TV.

Were they using a possible booster maybe or what is your personal opinion? Do I still need a converter box with my new HDTV even though I'm using an antenna?

ANSWER: Greetings Chad thanks for submitting your question on our Ask An RV Question Page.

First you do not need a Digital TV Converter Box for your new TV as it should have a built Digital TV Tuner. Since you already have the Wingman Upgrade for your Winegard RV Antenna it should help bring in more digital channels. Listed below are a couple of things you should check to make sure that everything is set up properly.

1. Check to make sure that the amplifier for your antenna is turned on. Depending on the system you have there could be a wall plate on your RV where the cable comes in the RV. That wall plate may have a tiny switch on it that turns on the amplifier for your Antenna. Make sure that it is turned on. If you have a Video Distribution Box in your RV the power for the amplifier may be provided by the box.

2. If you do have a Video Distribution Box in your RV make sure that the video source for your TV is set to External Antenna, not cable, not satellite, etc.

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3. Check all the connections to your TV, Video Distribution Box, and antenna to make that all are tight and properly connected.

4. Make sure that you are following the directions for your TV on scanning for TV channels. Each time you move the RV any distance you will have to rescan for TV channels.


5. If your TV has a menu screen that has signal strength meter make sure you rotate your antenna until the signal strength meter gets the best signal.

If all of the above fails you may want to invest in a digital TV Signal Amplifer. The one I personally recommend is the PCT 1-PORT BI-DIRECTIONAL TV SIGNAL BOOSTER. The reason I recommend this booster is because it is highly rated by people who own it. It boosts both Digital and Analog signals, It is easy to install and can be used on systems that use an antenna to receive signals as well as cable TV systems. It also supports pay-per view and video on demand. The most important factor is that it can improve signal strength by up to 32 times (15 dB). If this does not get you a better signal then nothing else will.

I hope this helps.

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