Connect Nooelec RTL-SDR to terrestrial TV aerial?

[daviestar]

Hi there,

I am very new to the subject of SDR, so please be gentle!

I'm based in the UK. I'm getting some work done to my roof, and in the next few days I have an opportunity to change/upgrade my TV aerial.

I've been pondering a project for a wee while, to use a Raspberry Pi to tune into our favourite radio station, BBC Radio 6 (which is DAB only), then potentially stream it around the house so we don't need multiple DAB radios.

I have been looking at the Nooelec RTL-SDR v5 dongle for this purpose.

My question is... can I plug this dongle into my terrestrial TV aerial? without frying it?

I have the option of installing a much smaller aerial with some gain (or at least, I know I need to plug it in), as someone gave me it, it's the SLx 27895K4. Could I also use this one with the Nooelec RTL-SDR v5?

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Dave

 

[BucksGuyUSA]

you might want to put a DC blocker between the sdr and the antenna

ANTENNA ----- AMPLIFIER------AMPLIFIER POWER INJECTOR GIZMO-------DC BLOCKER------SDR
Since the amplifier could be anywhere, put the DC blocker directly before the SDR.

In the USA, they are about $10, sure you can find similar in UK:

https://www.amazon.com/Ancable-F-Type-Voltage-Blocking-Capacitor/dp/B074K51D7X

Bear in mind that your TV antenna is most likely:
(a) Directional and...
(b) Optimized for TV frequencies in the UK 470 MHz to 860 MHz

DAB for BBC6/12C is 227.360 MHz. It CAN work. The question is will it work well. Maybe.

 

[daviestar]

Thanks, that's helpful info.

I've just looked up the specs of the SLx 27895K4 and found under Frequency:

VHF: 47-230MHz, UHF: 470-782MHz

So it seems this compact aerial is good for DAB radio frequencies. As for the one already installed on my roof, it came with the house and I have no idea.

I'll pick up the Voltage Blocking Capacitor you mentioned. I'm glad I asked, as I thought there might be a risk with the amplified aerial.

Thanks again.