scantenna problem

[johnmac]

I have a scantenna mounted outside for less than a year. Reception was fantastic after I installed it. Now reception has been terrible. I do receive low band ok and 800mhz , but high band and uhf is non existent except for local stations.

I used to receive at least 5-6 weather channels, now I am down to about one.

Anyone have any thoughts??

John

 

[W4KRR]

Connection from cable to antenna broken? Short in the coax cable? Water got into coax cable? These are some possibilities.

Check the antenna and the coax cable for any obvious breaks or shorts. If everything looks okay, consider replacing the coax cable. Use at least RG-6U, do not use RG-58.

 

[LarrySC]

First thing to check is the balun. The 300ohm to 75ohm transformer. Disconnect all three points and check with ohm meter. Should read short across any lead and coax port. If it is open it may have taken a lightning strike. You can buy new ones for under $5. BUT be sure the new one will show short also. Many of these things on the market that show an open circuit when tested. Those want work. Anyone that owns a Channel Master or Scantenna should always have one of these in the parts box. The old Channel Master part # was 0089. Good Luck

 

[HabboX]

Scantenna has a 300-75 ohm transformer that comes with a rubber thingy for waterproofing. Don't use the rubber thingy. It is no good.

Most likely water has infiltrated the cable. Replace the cable, and probably the balun, and seal up the connector with coax sealant. It is three bucks at RadioShack. Part number is 278-1645.

I always wrap the sealant with electrical tape to protect it from UV radiation that can make it crack years from now.

 

[johnmac]

Scantenna Problem

Thanks for all the suggestions.. Not sure what is going on.. Everything seems to be working fine right now.

It may in fact be a coax problem, with moisture. Will have to drag the antenna down and take a look.

John

 

[johnmac]

Scantenna Problem

Thanks for all the suggestions.. Not sure what is going on.. Everything seems to be working fine right now.

It may in fact be a coax problem, with moisture. Will have to drag the antenna down and take a look.

John