Antenna Question

[hoosier122]

I have a Uniden BC895XLT scanner. We also have an antenna outside that is used to pick up local TV stations. (It's about 10 feet taller than the house, so about 30 ft total?) Is there anyway to use this antenna for my scanner? If so, what do I need to do?

I have an adapter that I bought that connects the antenna socket on the back of my scanner to a coax wire. Am I on the right track?

 

[trap5858]

Yes, you can use it but you must modify it. Change the orientation from horizontal to vertical. I used one for a while but did not have a rotator so if what I wanted to listen to was "behind" the antenna- the signal dropped significantly. That is the main problem with directional antennas- making sure they are always pointed at the source.

Years ago, there was an article in Monitoring Times about converting TV antennas for scanner use. Maybe back as far as the early 80's. I am sure other info exists.

Hope this helps

Herb

 

[BadRambo]

Rehased TV Antennas

Hiya Hoosier ---

Yep, as noted, TV and FM bcst sigs are horizontally polarized. Most 2-way systems are indeed vertically polarized so for best work, it should be rotated so the elements are vertical. Unless you live on the edge of your reception area, the directivity of the antenna works against you unless you are pointed at the stations of interest.

If that antenna is fed with twin-lead, make sure to use a balun transformer to at least get you to a unbalanced 75 ohms -- the input of your scanner is probably close to 50 ohms. Most modern TV outdoor antennas have the balun mounted at the antenna so it usually is not an issue. Use good quality coax for the lowest signal loss.

Good Luck

 

[fourwd1]

Since you already have the necessary connector, try it (esp if your TV ant rotates), you have nothing to loose. From there you can decide if it is worth re-mounting vertically (which will adversley affect TV reception if you do).