uhf/vhf antenna does not plug into converter box. why?

zz1234

my uhf/vhf (combo) antenna is only 5 years old. the cable plugs into the back of my tv. yet it does not fit into the coverter box "antenna input" hole. does anyone know why?

i have been reading that uhf/vhf antennas work with converter boxes. what do you think the issue is?

Bob Mariani

Why do you want it connected to the converter box? It needs to feed the TV anyway and will normally go right to the TV.

zz1234

that is the whole crux of digital transmission. you need an antenna that feeds into the converter box; which transmits to your tv.

the instructions confirm this. does anyone know?

gregzoll

Pictures do wonders. Also, if the end of the antenna is not the proper type of connector, then yes it will not just "plug" into the box.

rgsgww

It should be a f-type connector. Or is it a "bunny ears" setup with a flat 2 wire cable that goes to a 300ohm->75 ohm adapter?

AllanJ

The standard round (75 ohm; not flat 300 ohm) antenna cable has a plug with a thin prong in the middle about as thick as a paper clip wire. If it doesn't push into the converter jack (stud) easily, it is OK to force it in.

Do not force in a plug prong that is thick like a pencil lead.

The shell of the plug may either press fit or screw on.

Flat antenna cables end in a pair of lugs or loose wires. You need to buy an adapter (300 to 75 ohm transformer) that typically looks like the end of your thumb and has two screws for the antenna wires and a shell with center prong that fits on the stud on your converter box.

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The average homeowner who lost his house in the Oklahoma tornadoes should move for good and not rebuild. Too much complexity watchdogging the contractor. Too much a chance to be defrauded.

KE2KB

What does the wire from the antenna look like?
Is it round, or is it flat?

If the cable is round, the connector should fit into the converter box.
If it's flat, then you need an adapter, which you can buy at Radio Shack.

If it is the flat type, I would strongly recommend upgrading to coaxial cable.
It is much, much less lossy than 300 ohm flat (twin-lead), and much less prone to spikes caused by lightning and other electrical disturbances.
You can keep the same antenna; Just need the adapter up on the antenna instead of at the converter box.

Can you post a photo?

FW

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