Home dvb t2 antenna. Making an antenna for digital TV with your own hands

The main indicator of the quality of each antenna is its interaction with the air signal. This principle of operation underlies both purchased and homemade antennas. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with recommendations on how to make an antenna for digital TV with your own hands.

Features of modern television

If you compare modern television broadcasts with the broadcasts that existed several years ago, you can find certain differences. First of all, the UHF range is used for television broadcasting. Thus, it is possible to significantly save money and signal reception by the antenna. In addition, in this case, there is also no need for periodic maintenance of antennas.

Also, there are many more television sensors than before, so most television channels are available in almost all places in the country. To ensure television broadcasting in habitable areas, low-power sensors are used.

In big cities, radio waves travel differently. Due to the large number of multi-story buildings, the signal through them is weak. In addition, there are a huge number of television channels, for which one standard television antenna is not enough to receive.

With the development of digital broadcasting, receiving channels has become even easier. These types of antennas are distinguished by their resistance to interference, phase or cable distortion, and image clarity.

Simple DIY digital antenna: device requirements

Since television broadcasting conditions have changed, the rules for operating modern antennas have also changed:

1. One of the main parameters of a television antenna, in the form of directional coefficient and protection coefficient, are not particularly important. To combat various types of interference, various electronic means are used.

2. The coefficient responsible for the antenna gain improves the signal, clears it of extraneous sounds and various types of interference.

3. Another important quality of a modern television antenna is range. Electrical parameters are saved automatically, without additional human intervention.

4. The operating range of the television antenna should interact well with the cable that connects to the antenna.

5. To avoid the appearance of phase distortions, it is necessary to ensure decent antenna characteristics in the amplitude-frequency ratio.

The characteristics of the last three points are determined by the properties of receiving a television signal using an antenna. An antenna operating at one frequency is capable of receiving several wave channels. However, in order for them to be consistent with the feeder, it is necessary to have a USS that strongly absorbs signals.

Therefore, there are certain options for digital antennas available for making at home. We suggest you familiarize yourself with them:

1. All-wave version of the antenna, such devices are frequency independent, they are cheap, and very popular among consumers. One hour is enough to make such an antenna. Such an antenna is perfect for city apartments, but in a populated area that is somewhat distant from television centers, such an antenna will work worse.

2. Speech therapy band version of the antenna - such an antenna picks up certain signals. It has a simple design, is well suited for various operating ranges, and does not change the feeder parameters. It has average technical parameters and is excellent for country houses, dachas, and apartments.

3. Z-shaped antenna, which is also called a zigzag antenna. Making such a structure will require a lot of time and physical effort. It has wide receiving characteristics. With the help of such an antenna it is possible to expand the reception range of television channels.

To achieve precise matching between antennas, it is necessary to lay the cable across the zero potential value.

DIY digital TV antenna: reception characteristics

Vibraton antennas are capable of finding several more digital ones on one analog cantal. Such devices receive wave channels. They are rarely used and are relevant for places remote from television towers.

Making your own satellite dish is a pointless process. Since in this process you will need to purchase a commercial tuner and head, and the alignment of the mirrors must be very accurate, it is almost impossible to achieve it at home. You can only configure such an antenna yourself, but not manufacture it.

In order to make the above antenna options, you need to have a very good understanding of higher mathematics and electrodynamic processes. Among the main characteristics of the terms used in the manufacturing process of television antennas, we note:

1. KU - antenna power, which is determined in the ratio of the received antenna signal to its main lobe.

2. KND - the relationship between the solid circle and the solid angle of the antenna lobes. If there are lobes of different sizes, they change in area.

3. KZD - the ratio between the signal received at the main lobe and the total amount of antenna power.

Please note that if the antenna is a band antenna, then the power is taken into account in relation to the useful signal.

Note that the first two terms are not necessarily interdependent. There are certain antenna options that have high directivity, but unity or less gain. However, a zigzag antenna combines significant gain with a low directivity level.

DIY digital TV antenna: manufacturing technology

Each of the antenna elements, through which the current flows, supplying the useful signal, must be connected to the other by soldering or welding. Any prefabricated unit located outdoors must be well fixed, since the destruction of electronic contact on the street occurs faster than indoors.

Particular attention should be paid to zero potential. It is in these places that voltage nodes and electric current are located at its highest power. Solid bent metal is used to make zero-potential locations.

The braid or core is made from coaxial cable made from copper or an inexpensive alloy with anti-corrosion properties. To solder the cable, a forty-volt soldering machine is used, with low-melting solders and flux paste.

A do-it-yourself outdoor digital antenna is made in such a way that all connections are resistant to moisture, temperature changes and other environmental influences.

To make an all-wave antenna you will need two triangular plates, two slats made of wood and enameled wire. At the same time, the size of the wire in diameter is practically unimportant, and the interval between their ends is about 2-3 cm. The interval between the plates on which the ends of the wire are located is 1 cm. One-sided square-shaped fiberglass coated with foil can replace two metal plates. At the same time, copper triangles should be cut out on it.

The antenna's width should be the same as its height. The canvases open at right angles. In order to lay the cable to this antenna, you must follow a certain diagram. The cable braid is not soldered to the point indicating zero potential. She just gets attached to her.

The CHNA, which stretches 150 cm inside the window, is capable of receiving most meter and DCM channels of any direction. The advantage of this antenna is that it has a wide channel reception interval. Therefore, such antennas are popular in large cities where there are various television centers. However, such an antenna has certain disadvantages - the antenna gain is single, and the gain is zero. Therefore, in the presence of large interference, the antenna will be irrelevant.

It is possible to make other types of digital antennas with your own hands using CNA, for example, a logarithmic spiral of two turns. This version of the antenna is compact and easier to manufacture.

Over-the-air digital antennas made from beer cans

To make a digital antenna with your own hands from a cable, you will need beer cans. This version of the antenna, with the right approach to its manufacture, has good performance characteristics. In addition, such an antenna is quite simple to manufacture.

The operating principle of such an antenna is based on increasing the diameter of the arms on a conventional linear vibrator. In this case, the working band expands, while other properties do not change.

Beer cans, in proportion to their size, are used as arms on the vibrator. At the same time, the expansion of the shoulders is unlimited. This version of a simple vibrator is used as an indoor digital antenna with your own hands to receive television broadcasts by connecting directly via cable.

If you choose the option of assembling a common-mode grating from a beer diopole, located vertically, with a step of half a wave, you will be able to improve the gain value of the antenna. Also, this device must have an antenna amplifier installed, with the help of which the device is coordinated and configured.

To strengthen such an antenna, a CPD is added to it, a screen and a grid are installed on the back of it, with an interval of half a grid. To install a beer antenna, you will need a dielectric mast, while the screen and the mast are connected by a mechanical connection.

At the same time, about three or four rows are arranged on the grid. Two gratings are not capable of achieving high gain.

DIY UHF antenna for digital television

A log-periodic version of the antenna is called a prefabricated antenna, which is connected to the halves on a linear diopole, the interval between them varies in relation to the geometric parameters of the progression. There are configured and free lines. We suggest choosing a longer and smoother version of the antenna.

To manufacture LPA, it is necessary to have any predetermined range. The higher the progression indicators, the greater the gain of the antenna. In terms of operational and technical characteristics, this antenna option is ideal for manufacturing at home.

The main principle of its normal functioning is making correct calculations. With increasing progressive indicators, the gain increases and the directivity angle decreases. This antenna does not require an additional screen. Since it does not depend on its general characteristics.

When calculating a digital LP antenna, use the following recommendations:

• the second longest vibrator must have a reserve of frequency power;
• Next, the longest diopole is calculated;
• After this, another specified frequency range is added.

If the shortest diopole leaves lines, then it is cut off, since it is needed on the antenna only for calculations. The total length of the antenna will be about 40 cm.

The diameter of the lines on the antenna is about 7-16 mm. In this case, the interval between the axes is 40 mm. The cable is not tied to the line externally, as this will negatively affect the technical properties of the antenna.

The outdoor antenna is fixed to the mast using the center of gravity. Otherwise, the antenna will constantly shake under the influence of the wind. However, the metal mast is not connected to the line in a straight line, since a dielectric mast, the length of which is about 150 cm, must be provided in this place. A wooden beam, previously painted or varnished, can be used as a dielectric material.

DIY digital antenna video:

The modern world is hard to imagine without television, because it is an integral part of every person’s daily life. It is important that the quality of the transmitted signal remains at the highest level; for this it is convenient to use modern devices. How to choose this technique correctly in order to get a high-quality image on your TV?

What is the difference between an antenna for receiving digital television and a regular one?

The main difference between modern TV equipment and conventional equipment is that they pick up different signals and frequencies. The new standards offer a more stable image, there is no noise, and the transmitted colors are very clear. This is especially good for owners of widescreen screens, which can convey all the colorfulness of the image. Modern TV provides a large number of channels, and you can install protection for programs that you would not want to watch, or, conversely, pay extra for additional services.

Professional antennas for digital TV

1. Combined all-wave device Funke DCRS.1760 /1-69/. The body of this device is made of aluminum, anodized with a gold-containing alloy. Has three outputs, gain in ranges from 5 to 15db. Installed outside, in private homes.
2. Combined all-wave device Funke DCRS.1753 /1-69/, made of aluminum, mandatory anodizing with an alloy containing gold. It has two outputs and amplification in the range from 3 to 14.5db.
3. The combined all-wave apparatus Logo P-14 is used in multi-storey buildings. Installed outside. The design is made of ferrous metal, which makes it more durable and durable.
4. UHF range device Funke BM4591 /21-69/. The structure is made of aluminum, on top of which anodizing is carried out with an alloy with gold. The gain is 16.7db, and the device also consists of 91 elements.

Indoor antenna for digital TV

1. Delta. Indoor television model for private use, receiving television programs that are broadcast in the UHF wave range from 470 to 790 MHz, receiving channels from 21 to 60. Horizontal polarization of electromagnetic wave reception. This device is installed exclusively indoors.
2. Delta DIGITAL 5B. Designed to receive DVB-T and DVB-T2. The kit includes a signal amplifier for signal attenuation in the cable, used only indoors.
3. Indoor antenna for digital television Delta K131 for receiving television programs that are broadcast in the UHF wave range from 470 to 790 MHz. The device is intended for installation inside an apartment or house.
4. Uralochka. Modern development for receiving DVB-T2 and analog TV, without a power supply, with a built-in amplifier. The long cable allows you to place the device on a wall, window or even attic.

Outdoor antenna

1. Delta N3111.02. Designed to receive analogue television waves ranging from 21 to 69 channels and DVB-T television, installed outdoors. The polarization of received signals is horizontal.
2. UHF antenna for digital television Delta H181 for outdoor installation. Receives analog television waves from 21 to 69 channels and DVB TV, with a gain of 8.5-11 dB. An outdoor model that is ideal for private homes and cottages.
3. Delta N111A.02F. The externally installed device receives signals in horizontal polarization and a frequency band from 470 to 790 MHz. The kit includes an amplifier and a splitter.

What should a good digital antenna be like?

You need to decide on the type of device: what antenna is needed for digital TV? Depending on the installation location, the device can be outdoor or indoor. Next, decide on the strength of the transmitted signal, how accurately it will arrive, and whether an amplifier is needed. In some cases, such an additional function is completely unnecessary, and its presence, on the contrary, distorts the image and sound. Pay attention not only to the model itself, but also to the instructions that come with it. It must contain clear information with complete characteristics.

A do-it-yourself digital TV antenna is a reality for those who really like to design various devices and devices, regardless of their complexity. To do this, it is not necessary to invent a new device; you can use a regular analog antenna or create your own unique design, complementing the inexpensive basic model. The main thing is to correctly configure it for the required broadcast ranges.

Where to buy and how much it costs

Purchasing equipment for broadcasting the desired TV channels will not be difficult. Such devices are presented in specialized stores, on the market of household appliances and accessories, and also in online stores. Prices for different models are presented in the table; they will depend on the place of purchase.

Gradually, everyone is abandoning analogue television, giving preference to digital broadcasting. The largest providers are also restructuring to work with a newer, modern format. The era of analogue TV is gradually coming to an end.

In order for previously installed home antenna devices to complete their resource, it is enough to connect a DVB-T receiver to the TV, as a result, digital signals will be received correctly.

You can make an antenna for digital television with your own hands, so there is absolutely no need to go to the store and spend extra money. You don’t need any special skills or equipment; you can create the necessary design using available tools.

Now we will answer in detail the question of how to make an antenna for digital TV. We will carefully analyze the process, select the optimal material, and also carry out all the necessary calculations. Nevertheless, first we will deal with the theoretical nuances.

Regardless of the signal format, it is transmitted from the tower emitters. Reception of the wave channel is provided by the antenna device. To receive a digital signal, you will need a sinusoidal device with the highest possible frequency, which is measured in MHz.

When an electromagnetic wave passes through the surface of the receiving beams of the antenna, a V-voltage is induced in it. Each wave contributes to the formation of a different potential, marking it with its characteristic sign.

Under the influence of an induced voltage, an electrical current flows in a closed receiving circuit with resistance R. It is gradually growing. Processing is carried out by the TV circuit, the picture is displayed on the monitor, and the sound is broadcast through the speakers.

It won't work with a regular indoor antenna. Firstly, you will need an intermediate link that will provide decoding of information - a DVB-T receiver. Secondly, you should use a UHF antenna or Turkin antenna for DVB.

Antenna figure eight

How to make such an antenna with your own hands? First you need to prepare the material. Then carry out the appropriate calculations. At the final stage, assemble the structure and connect it to the TV. Nothing complicated. Every user can cope with this task.

Materials for antenna assembly

Making an antenna for digital television is not difficult. The list of materials used will vary depending on the type of antenna device. For example, if you wish, you can make it even from the most ordinary beer cans.

To produce a good and simple TV antenna for digital channels, you will need copper or aluminum wire with a thickness of 2 to 5 millimeters. In general, it will take only 1 hour to create such a design. You also need to use:

• handset;
• corner;
• copper or aluminum strip.

You will definitely need a tool that will allow you to bend the frames to the required shape. To bend the wire, use a hammer after securing the material in a vice.

You can make your own antenna not only from wire, but also from cable (coaxial). Choose a plug that matches the connector on your TV. Naturally, you also need to fix the structure; the bracket is made from scrap materials.

As for the cable, it must be taken with a resistance in the range of 50-75 Ohms. Particular attention should be paid to insulation if the device will be placed outdoors.

The specifics of fastening are determined in accordance with where the structure will be located. For example, residents of multi-storey buildings will be able to make their own antenna for digital TV and hang it like a home antenna, i.e. on the curtains. To do this, you will need large pins that will serve as a fastening element.

However, if you want to place the created device on the roof, then you need to make a bracket. To do this you will need a file, a soldering iron and a needle file.

We've sorted out the spiral antenna, but you can also make another design - a double square. It is made from copper, brass or aluminum tubes. Wire 3-6 mm thick is less commonly used. In general, the choice of material is determined in accordance with the MF band and the number of channels.

Double square - two frames that are connected by an upper and lower arrow. The small frame is a vibrator, and the large one is a reflector. To achieve maximum gain, increase the number of frames to three. The third square is the director.

The mast must be made of wood. At least its upper part. Please note that it should start at a distance of one and a half meters from the level of the frames.

So, step by step instructions:

1. Take the coaxial cable and strip it from both ends.
2. One end will be attached to the antenna, the wire should stick out 2 cm.
3. The screen and braid are twisted into a bundle.
4. We get two conductors.
5. Solder the plug to the second edge of the cable. A distance of 1 cm is sufficient. If you use a crimped metal plug, you can skip further steps.
6. Tin and make 2 more conductors.
7. Wipe the solder joints of the plug with alcohol.
8. Place the plastic part of the plug onto the wire.
9. A single core is soldered to the central input of the plug.
10. A multi-core harness is soldered to the side entrance of the plug.
11. Crimp the grip around the insulation.
12. Screw on the plastic tip or fill it with glue.

Calculation

To set up digital television reception, it is absolutely not necessary to calculate the wavelength. Just try to make a broadband design. As a result, you will be able to receive the maximum number of signals. To achieve this result, add additional elements to the T2 antenna with your own hands. It is about them that will be discussed further.

The calculation of an antenna for digital TV is based on determining the signal transmission wave. Divide this value by 4 to get the required side of the square. To determine the distance between the two components of the device, make the outer sides of the rhombuses a little longer, therefore, the inner sides, on the contrary, should be shorter.

If you don’t want to calculate the dimensions of the antenna yourself, use ready-made drawings:

• The inner side of the rectangle is 13 cm.
• The outer side of the rectangle is 14 cm.

The difference is the distance between the squares; by the way, they should not be connected under any circumstances; the extreme sections provide the necessary maneuver for folding the loop. It is to this that the coaxial antenna wire is attached.

Antenna manufacturing

If we calculate the entire length, we will end up with a value of 112 centimeters. Cut the wire or any other material that you plan to use, take a ruler and pliers, and begin to bend the structure. The angle should be 90 degrees. If the sides do not match in length, it’s okay, a small error is acceptable.

Initial data for making an antenna for digital TV:

1. The first element is 13 centimeters and 1 centimeter per loop, by the way, it can be bent right away.
2. Two elements of 14 centimeters each.
3. Two are 13 centimeters each, but there must be a turn in the opposite direction; here a bend is created to another square.
4. Two more sections of 14 centimeters each.
5. The last one is identical to the first one.

The antenna frame for digital TV is ready. If you did everything correctly, then between the 2 halves there is a gap of several centimeters in the middle. Naturally, there may be minor differences. After this, the loops and bend areas must be cleaned until no metal is visible. Processing is carried out with fine-grain sandpaper. We connect the loops and crimp them with pliers to fix their position.

The design itself is ready, but in order for the antenna made for T2 to function correctly, the cable must be processed. We start with double-sided stripping of the wire. One edge will connect directly to the antenna. You need to strip the cable in this area so that the cord sticks out about two centimeters. If you get a little more, you can simply cut off the rest later.

We twist the screen and cable braid into a bundle, as a result we get 2 conductors - a central core and a twisted element of several braided wires. All this needs to be tinned.

Using a soldering station, solder the plug to the second edge of the cable. A centimeter length is quite enough, small errors are acceptable. According to the principle described earlier, you need to make a pair of conductors and tin them.

The plug is placed in those areas where soldering will be carried out in the future; first wipe it with alcohol or a special solvent. Then, using a file or emery, we clean it. Place the plastic plug element onto the cord. Now start soldering. Attach a core to the central entrance, and a multi-core braid to the side entrance. Crimp the grip around the insulation.

Screw on the plastic tip; some experts even fill it with glue or a special sealant to strengthen the fixation. While the fixing base is still wet, quickly assemble the plug by screwing on the plastic part, and then remove excess glue or sealant. As a result, it will be possible to maximize the service life of the plug. The homemade product has been created, it's time to connect it.

Connection

Connect the cable and the frame of the homemade DVB T2 antenna. It is absolutely not necessary to bind to any specific channel, so solder the cord in the middle. As a result, a broadband antenna will be created that will receive the maximum number of TV channels. Solder the second split end of the wire to the other two sides again in the middle, previously you stripped them and also tinned them. To extend the reception range, do not solder the cable from the bottom.

When the structure is assembled, it must be checked. We connect the tuner and turn on the TV. If digital television receives, for example, you managed to set up 20 channels, you need to finally complete the assembly. Fill the areas where soldering was carried out with sealant.

However, if there are very few active channels or there is some interference, then you need to find a place where there will be an optimal signal. If there are no positive changes, change the antenna cable. To simplify the testing process as much as possible, use telephone wire, it is quite cheap. Solder the plug and frames to it. If the signal quality has improved, then the problem is really in the cable. will broadcast channels even if noodles are used, but as practice shows, its service life is extremely limited.

To protect the cable connection areas and antenna frames from precipitation and other atmospheric influences, wrap the solder joints with ordinary insulating tape. However, this is not a permanent solution. A more effective option is to install heat-shrinkable tubing on the soldering areas, which will ensure proper insulation.

An alternative option with maximum reliability is glue or sealant. The fact is that these substances do not conduct current. Be sure to make a housing for the antenna; an ordinary plastic cover will do for this. If necessary, make indentations so that the frame “settles down”; do not forget about the cord outlet. Pour in the sealant and wait for it to dry. Everything is ready, we connect the equipment and enjoy digital TV.

Double or triple square for weaker signal

The TV antenna is used in villages, dachas and in areas that are located on the border of the coverage area of ​​television towers. The device allows you to receive even a very weak signal. If you do everything correctly, the power of the TV signal will increase noticeably.

A double or triple square has only one drawback - you need to direct the structure to the signal source with maximum accuracy. Therefore, if you do not know where exactly the tower is, difficulties will arise.

The number of frames determines the signal quality. Therefore, if you are outside the coverage area, you don’t have to limit yourself to 2-3 frames, you can make 5. Do not open the antenna with varnish or paint it. This negatively affects the quality of signal reception.

What are the strengths of the design? First of all, the quality of reception. Even if you are far from the repeater, the signal will be clear. However, it will be possible to achieve a positive result only if the user correctly determines the dimensions of the frames and matching device.

Materials

To make an antenna for digital TV yourself, you need to prepare materials that will later be used to make the structure. The antenna is made from metal tubes or wire:

• 1-5 meter channel - copper, brass, aluminum tubes 10-20 millimeters thick;
• 6-12 meter channel channel - copper, brass, aluminum tubes 8-15 millimeters thick;
• decimeter range - copper, brass wire with a thickness of 3 to 5 millimeters.

Double square - 2 frames, which are connected by a pair of arrows (upper and lower). The smallest frame is the so-called vibrator, and the largest is the reflector. A device with three frames will have a higher TV signal gain. The third square is usually called the director.

Instructions for creating a T2 antenna:

1. The top arrow (made of metal) must connect the middles of all frames.
2. The lower boom is made using electrically insulating materials: wood, textolite.
3. Arrange all the frames so that their centers are on the same line.
4. The direct line should be sent to the repeater.
5. The vibrator must be open circuit. Its edges are fixed to a PCB plate.
6. If you made frames from metal tubes, then the edges should be flattened and holes should be made in them to fix the lower boom.
7. The mast must be made of wood, or at least its upper part.

Size calculation

The calculation of an antenna for digital TV will directly depend on the range - meter or decimeter. The dimensions of the antenna with three frames are characterized by a large distance between the ends of the vibrator. You need to leave more distance - 50 millimeters.

The tables show the dimensions of two-element loop antennas. Meter range:

UHF:

Size of three-element antennas. Meter range:

UHF:

Vibrator connection

Considering the fact that the frame is symmetrical, and the connection is made to an asymmetrical antenna cable, you need to use a matching device. The best option is a short-circuited loop. It is made from pieces of coaxial cable. The left segment is a feeder, and the right one is usually called a train. In the place where the feeder and cable will be connected, we fix the cable, which is subsequently connected to the TV.

What should be the length of these segments? The calculation is carried out in accordance with the wavelength of the received TV signal.

At one end you need to cut the cable, removing the aluminum screen. The braid must be twisted into a tight rope. We cut off the central conductor down to the insulation. The feeder also needs to be cut. Remove the screen, made of aluminum, and then twist the braid. However, we leave the central conductor.

The further assembly process is carried out as follows:

1. Solder the cable braid and feeder conductor to the left edge of the vibrator.
2. The feeder braid needs to be soldered to the right edge of the vibrator.
3. A metal jumper connects the cable braid to the lower end of the feeder. These elements can also be fastened with metal wire. The main thing is that there is proper contact with the braid.
4. The braid determines not only the electrical connection, but also the distance between the sections of the matching device.
5. If there is no metal wire and jumper, then twist the braided lower part of the cable into a bundle, after first removing the screen and removing the insulation. To ensure proper contact, you need to solder the wire harnesses using solder that melts easily.
6. The cable pieces should be parallel to each other. Distance – 50 millimeters (small error is acceptable). To secure the distance, special clamps made of electrical insulating materials are used. You can also attach the matching device to the textolite plate.
7. The cable that is inserted into the TV socket should be soldered to the feeder (to the bottom). The braids are interconnected, like the central conductors.

To reduce the number of connecting elements, the feeder and cable connected to the TV can be made one. Remove the insulation where the feeder ends. This is done in order to install the jumper.

A matching device is a mandatory element that helps prevent interference. It will be especially useful if the signal transmitter (TV tower) is located at a great distance.

Butterfly antenna

The TV antenna can also be made in the shape of a butterfly. Such a device will be in no way inferior to a decimeter antenna. There is absolutely no need to do everything from scratch. It is much easier to convert a regular grille into a digital one for T2 tuning. To make it yourself, follow these simple instructions:

1. Take a small board that will become the basis of the future antenna.
2. Cut 8 wires, each 37.5 centimeters long.
3. The middle of all wires must be stripped about 2 centimeters.
4. Bend the wires until they form a V shape. The distance between the wires should be 7.5 centimeters.
5. Cut 2 more wires, each of them should be 22 centimeters long.
6. Strip the wires where they will be attached to the antenna base (board).
7. Place the screws along the base of the antenna, and then connect the V-shaped elements with two wires.
8. Connect the antenna and cable using the special plug.

Every user can create such a device. You don't have to buy anything. The antenna is made from improvised materials.

From coaxial cable

You can actually make a TV antenna manually using a cable:

1. Cut approximately 530 millimeters of cable.
2. Strip the cable on both sides, fastening the braid into a bundle and exposing the central core.
3. Twist the cable into a ring or diamond shape and secure it with tape to the plywood. The distance between the cable rings should be 2 centimeters.
4. Cut a piece of coaxial cable - 175 centimeters. Make a horseshoe-shaped matching device out of it. To do this, you need to strip the wire from both ends, as you did in the process of making rings.
5. Prepare the antenna cable. The plug is put on one side, and the other is stripped. It is necessary to remove the central core and braid.
6. Align the ring and matching device with the antenna cable.

As a base, you can use not only plywood, but also plexiglass.

Antenna made from tin cans

To make a simple TV antenna for digital channels you will need a cable, a couple of aluminum or tin cans, and a small plastic pipe. A wooden plank can also be used as a base.

Remember that the antenna can only be created from aluminum or tin cans. Plastic or glass will not work. The main requirement is smooth, not ribbed, internal walls. Anyone can install such a device with their own hands in just a few minutes.

1. Rinse well and then dry the jars.
2. The end of the coaxial cable must be cut.
3. Remove the insulation from the center core.
4. Twist the braid.
5. Once you have 2 wires, attach them to the jars.
6. If you have a soldering iron on hand, solder the conductors. They can also be secured with self-tapping screws with flat heads. Twist a loop at the ends of the conductors, and insert a self-tapping screw with a washer into it, then secure it to the can.
7. Pre-clean the metal, you need to take fine-grained sandpaper and remove plaque, as well as paint.
8. Attach the jars to a plastic pipe or wooden strip.
9. The distance is calculated individually.
10. Connect the cable to the TV and try tuning the channels.

This is an emergency solution to the problem. Don’t be under any illusions; at best, several channels will be available in good quality. The final result directly depends on how far away the TV tower is, how “clean” the corridor is, and also how well the antenna is made.

Now you know how to make an antenna using improvised means.

Since the advent of radio communications, the issue of using an antenna has been very relevant. In 1961, engineer Kharchenko proposed a design consisting of two rhombuses. With its help, he caught American broadcasts.

Evolution

The antenna, invented by Kharchenko, is a double square made of thick copper wire. The squares are connected to each other with open corners, and in this place they are connected. To improve directionality, a grille made of conductive material is installed at the rear.

The perimeter of each square is equal to the wavelength to which the reception is tuned. The diameter of the wire for 1-5 television channels should be about 12 cm. Because of this, for radio communications and meter range television (1-12 channels) it turns out to be very cumbersome. To facilitate the design, a gasket with three wires of a smaller cross-section was used, but it still had a lot of weight and dimensions.

The zigzag antenna created by Kharchenko received a second life when broadcasting appeared in the UHF range. Everyone remembers rhombuses, circles, triangles and other homemade figures as a TV antenna for receiving decimeter waves, which hung on many people’s balconies and outside their windows. They were one of the signs of that time.

In 2001, Professor Trevor Marshall (USA) proposed using this design in Bluetooth and WiFi networks.

This article talks about what devices are available for these purposes and how to make such an antenna with your own hands.

You can use one zigzag antenna drawing for all bands. The only differences are in size.

Antennas for TV

There is practically no meter range television, and Kharchenko’s zigzag antenna was not used to receive these channels due to its large dimensions. Therefore, this article only talks about its application for UHF and DVB-T2.

Improving UHF reception

For UHF reception, the zigzag antenna has the following dimensions:

• L1 (outer side of the square) – 141.8 mm;
• L2 (inner side of the square) – 135.6 mm;
• L3 (frame length) – 397.4 mm;
• L4 (frame width) – 198.7 mm;
• L5 (connection gap) – 8.4 mm;
• D (height of racks) – 65 mm;
• B (screen width) – 565 mm;
• H (screen length) – 565 mm;
• wire diameter – 9.6 mm;
• quantity of wire – 1166.9 mm.

It turns out to be quite broadband and does not require additional configuration. Connects using a piece of television cable. Characteristic impedance - about 50 Ohms. The antenna matches well with coaxial cable with resistance of both 50 and 75 Ohms. To improve broadband, it can be made not from wire, but from copper or aluminum strip and connected with rivets. The copper strip can be additionally soldered. The length of the strip is calculated between the rivet holes.

If you use an antenna amplifier, then the second square is not needed, you can take only one.

Improved T2 reception

Digital TV DVB-T2 is broadcast at UHF frequencies on channels 21-69 using the multiplex method. Therefore, the design for T2 needs the same dimensions as the antenna for digital television in the DCV range. However, modern TVs block it when the signal is too strong. Therefore, if the transmitter for T2 is too close, and you want to use the old frame for DVB-T2, then you may need a weaker amplifier for digital television, you will have to cut off one square or remove the screen from the back side. You can also make such a device for t2 with your own hands or use a digital TV antenna made in the form of a circle, 555 mm long. This is enough for digital TV.

Designs for the Internet, 3g and mobile communications

For mobile communications, Bluetooth, 3g and WiFi, such short waves and high frequencies are used that the entire device is about 10 cm long and is manufactured according to the same drawing for all bands. The only differences are in the sizes, which can be calculated using an online calculator. You can also use it for your mobile phone.

DIY zigzag antenna

Making an antenna yourself is not difficult. For production you need:

• single-core copper wire;
• soldering iron;
• pliers;
• ruler;
• coaxial cable with a characteristic impedance of 50 Ohms;
• conductive material for the screen (foil getinaks, DVD or CD disc, sprat can, etc.);
• a stand that provides the correct distance between the antenna and the screen, for example, a plastic bottle cap;
• glue.

The manufacturing process can be divided into several stages:

1. Clean the wire from insulation;
2. Using a ruler, mark the folds;
3. Use pliers to bend the wire in the previously marked places. The more accurately the markings were made and the wire was bent, the better the reception will be;
4. The cable connection points are tinned;
5. The cable is tinned, or a plug is put on the cable, to which pieces of wire 10-15 mm long are soldered;
6. The wire is soldered to the antenna;
7. A stand and a screen are sequentially placed on the cable;
8. The entire structure is glued, for example, with silicone.

Improved WiFi and Bluetooth reception

WiFi, like other types of wireless communications, is transmitted by radio waves. Therefore, this design can also be used to improve the performance of a WiFi router or other devices. According to reviews, if you use a parabolic plate as a screen (alternatively, you can bend it out of a tin can), the gain reaches 31 dB. When using a homemade reflector, its curvature is selected experimentally. To do this, on the device to which the signal is transmitted, you need to install a program that shows the signal level and, changing the curvature of the screen, monitor it.

The calculation is made at a frequency of 2445 MHz.

• L1 (outer side of the square) – 30.8 mm;
• L2 (inner side of the square) – 29.6 mm;
• L3 (frame length) – 84 mm;
• L4 (frame width) – 43 mm;
• L5 (connection gap) – 1.9 mm;
• D (height of racks) – 13.6 mm;
• B (screen width) – 122 mm;
• H (screen length) – 122 mm;
• wire diameter – 2.5 mm;
• quantity of wire – 256.6mm.

Important! The more accurately the dimensions are maintained, the better the reception will be.

You can use a piece of foil getinax for printed circuit boards as a screen. For mechanical strength, the screen is soldered to the wire braid.

You can use a CD or DVD disc as a screen. The disk has a thin layer of foil on which information is recorded. In this case, you can make an antenna in a CD box.

Install the Kharchenko antenna horizontally. This is due to the polarization of the signal.

Bluetooth uses the same frequencies as WiFi. Therefore, you need a WiFi range antenna of the same size.

Connecting to a router

If the router has a connector for connecting an external antenna, then a plug is soldered to the end of the cable and inserted into the connector.

If it is not there, then to connect you need to open the modem and solder the cable to the board. The shorter the wire, the better. The power of the router is small, and cable losses are sometimes decisive.

Attention! This work can only be performed by experienced specialists. Opening the device will void the warranty.

Connecting to a laptop

Laptops have built-in WiFi cards for portability and reduced size. Therefore, there is no external antenna, and the internal one is low-power. To connect to it, you need to disassemble the laptop and know exactly where it is located. But there is an alternative option using a USB WiFi adapter with an antenna. Having cut it, you can find the central core and screen. A coaxial cable is respectively soldered to them. The ideal option would be to install directly on the adapter to reduce cable losses.

Improved 3g reception

Modern mobile Internet uses the 3g standard with a signal frequency of 2100 MHz and a wavelength of 143 mm. Therefore, the dimensions will be as follows:

• L1 (outer side of the square) – 37.1 mm;
• L2 (inner side of the square) – 35.5 mm;
• L3 (frame length) – 104 mm;
• L4 (frame width) – 52 mm;
• L5 (connection gap) – 2.2 mm;
• D (height of racks) – 17 mm;
• B (screen width) – 148 mm;
• H (screen length) – 148 mm;
• wire diameter – 2.5 mm;
• quantity of wire – 305.4 mm.

Structurally, the 3g antenna is no different from the design for WiFi.

Connecting to a 3g modem

The most effective way is to connect the cable inside the router, but to do this you need to be a specialist in the field of repairing mobile communication equipment. For everyone else, we can suggest another method.

Wireless connection

To do this, cut two pieces of copper or brass foil, 45 and 27 mm wide and long enough to wrap the modem and solder the edges. We do the same with a wide section, solder the central core of the cable to it and put it on the modem. Instead of a wide piece of foil, you can strip 15-20 cm of wire and wrap the modem tightly. A narrow piece is bent in a semicircle and soldered to the cable braid. The relative position for the best reception is selected experimentally.

Additional Information. If the antenna is connected directly to the modem, without a cable, and the modem itself is connected using a USB extension cable, then losses in the cable can be avoided.

Connect to a smartphone or tablet

It is necessary to strip a piece of cable and wrap the central conductor 10-15 turns around the phone. You can also take a piece of brass or copper foil, solder the central core of the cable to it and insert it between the back cover and the case.

Improved 4g reception

Mobile Internet of the 4g standard uses a frequency of 2600 MHz with a wavelength of 115 mm. Therefore, the dimensions will be:

• L1 (outer side of the square) – 28.9 mm;
• L2 (inner side of the square) – 27.6 mm;
• L3 (frame length) – 81 mm;
• L4 (frame width) – 40.5 mm;
• L5 (connection gap) – 1.7 mm;
• D (height of racks) – 13.2 mm;
• B (screen width) – 115 mm;
• H (screen length) – 115 mm;
• wire diameter – 2 mm;
• quantity of wire – 237.9 mm.

Cell phone antenna

Mobile communications operate in two bands. You can find out which one you need on your operator’s website.

Comparative characteristics

"Double" Bi-Quad (double biquad)

Double biquadrat is also a Kharchenko antenna. It is made with your own hands in the same way as a regular biquadrat. It differs from a regular biquadrat in that at the vertices of the squares, instead of the corners, there are additional squares. The dimensions of these squares are exactly the same as the main ones. Therefore, no additional calculation is needed; you can take the calculation for a regular biquadrat. The calculation for the Kharchenko antenna can be found in this article or use the online calculator program for the calculation. The wires at the intersection are insulated from each other.

The double biquadrat can be continued in the same way. Those who want to make it can easily calculate the length of the wire. This gives additional gain.

Dear readers of the NskTarelka.ru blog, if you are interested in the answer to the question - Which antenna to choose for digital terrestrial TV? - then this article is just for you.

Before we start talking about choosing a television antenna for digital television of the DVB-T2 standard, let's talk a little about terrestrial television itself.

Terrestrial television - broadcast formats, signal broadcast

Free television channels, which we watch by receiving the signal on indoor or outdoor (street) antennas, are the same terrestrial television. A television (radio) signal is transmitted from a repeater into the air, that is, into the surrounding space, via electromagnetic waves. We, as users, use terrestrial antennas to receive this television signal.

To transmit a television signal, meter VHF (VHF) and decimeter UHF (UHF) waves are used.

Digital terrestrial television of the DVB-T2 standard is broadcast via UHF decimeter waves. Accordingly, in order to watch “digital” you need to have the “correct” antenna. It must be either all-wave (VHF + UHF) or UHF decimeter range. With an antenna that receives only VHF band, watching digital terrestrial television will not be possible.

MV and UHF are ultrashort wave (VHF) bands dedicated to the transmission of television signals. The frequency band is from 48 to 862 MHz, conditionally divided into 5 ranges combined into two groups:
- 1-12 channels meter or HF (VHF), bands I, II, III (47-160 MHz);
- 21-60 UHF channels, otherwise UHF (UHF), bands IV, V. (470-862 MHz).

Broadcasting of analogue terrestrial television occurs in both bands, both in HF and UHF. Previously, it was planned to turn off analog TV in Russia by the end of 2015, but now the deadline has been pushed back to 2018.

Which antenna to choose for digital TV?

Since we are choosing an antenna for digital TV, it is assumed that we have a DVB-T2 standard set-top box, or a TV with a built-in DVB-T2 tuner. We have accurate information that in the place we are interested in, where we want to enjoy watching digital television, it is already available.

Not that I’m “captain obvious” or as if for those who are “in the tank,” but you never know, just in case. Suddenly, someone reading is not in the know, and thinks that to watch digital television, the “necessary” antenna is enough. No, that's not true.
So, before you spend money on an antenna, let’s check what’s available. It is quite possible, just connect to the old antenna and everything will work.

If your antenna previously received analogue terrestrial television channels in the UHF range, then digital television will probably work without problems. All you have to do is connect everything and scan the channels.

Why did I write quite possibly? Because there are some nuances. There are such concepts as the difference in altitude between your location and the available repeaters transmitting the television signal.

Collective antenna

First of all, if you live in an apartment building and it uses a collective antenna, try connecting through it. If everything works, great.

If not, contact your service organization with a request to sort out the television signal or install your own.

Indoor antenna

Whether an indoor antenna is enough for high-quality digital television reception depends on the distance of the repeater (transmitter), as well as its power. The power of the transmitter you are interested in can be found at the advisory support center.

Or, as an option, on the RTRS website, in the upper right corner, click on “Select region”, select your region (republic, region, district). After that, click on “Digital TV” in the menu. On the page that opens, click on the link “Digital broadcasting objects of the RTRS-1 package.” The table that opens will contain information about the transmitter power.

On average, the coverage radius of a DVB-T2 digital transmitter in the decimeter range, under the most ideal conditions (receiving antenna height 10 m, flat terrain, line of sight):
- 10 W - about 3 km.
- 50 W - about 5 km.
-100 W - about 15 km.
— 500 W — about 25 km.
-1 kW - about 30-35 km.
- 2 kW - about 35-40 km.
- 5 kW - about 40 - 50 km.
RTRS group VKontakte

When the TV tower is in direct view from the window, reception without an antenna is even possible. It is enough to connect a piece of coaxial cable, popularly called an antenna.

When connecting one TV, choosing between the options of a passive antenna or an active one, we give preference to the passive one. Passive is the one without an amplifier. Active with amplifier.

To broadcast the DVB-T2 standard to several TVs, an active antenna is purchased. Since the signal is split into two or more TVs using a divider, losses occur that are compensated by the amplifier. If there is a choice, purchase an antenna with adjustable signal gain. Thanks to this, we can control the signal amplification power.

The proposed selection of indoor antennas may give you a headache. Which one should I buy?

The upper price line is usually not good. Many expensive ones are not good at all.

There is no need to focus on those promoted as specialized for DVB-T2. Often this is beautiful junk for a lot of money. There are no specialized DVB-T2 antennas - this is a marketing ploy.

As I said above, the television signal broadcasts at frequencies of the meter - MV (VHF), and decimeter UHF (UHF) VHF ranges. The UHF range is currently allocated to the DVB-T2 digital terrestrial television standard. And the right one would be a UHF antenna, not a DVB-T2 antenna.

Therefore, if the box says super duper for DVB-T2, this does not mean anything.

If the TV tower is not visible from your window, but it is relatively nearby, it is advisable to purchase an indoor directional antenna. In this case, the signal comes to you reflected from other houses - an indoor directional antenna is the best option here.

In terms of price-quality ratio, an excellent option would be to purchase one of the brands - LOCUS (Locus) Moscow or Delta St. Petersburg.
If possible, before buying an indoor antenna, try to borrow it to test the signal from friends. Or if you buy in a specialized store, you may be able to negotiate a return with a replacement for a street one.

Outdoor (outdoor) antenna

When you can’t catch it with an indoor antenna or, due to the distance, it doesn’t even make sense to try, we use an outdoor (street) antenna. If there is an old one that is already on the roof or on the balcony, or outside the window, first we try to catch it. No antenna, let's go to the store.

What should you consider when choosing an outdoor (street) antenna? To begin with, using a map of the DVB-T2 digital television coverage area, we determine the distance from the antenna installation site to the repeater from which we plan to catch the signal.
When choosing an antenna, take into account the signal strength of the repeater. The power of a tower determines its reception area.

If the terrain is not flat, it makes sense to find out the difference in altitude between your location and the available repeaters transmitting the television signal.

When connecting one TV, as in the case of an indoor antenna, choosing a passive outdoor antenna is preferable to choosing an active one.

When distributing a signal to two or more TVs, we use an active antenna, i.e., with an amplifier. If there is a choice, we purchase it with adjustable gain.

When purchasing, we give preference to an antenna made only for the decimeter range - UHF (UHF). If you plan to watch analogue channels in parallel with digital ones, until they are turned off, purchase an all-wave one that supports both bands. Both meter - MV (VHF), and decimeter UHF (UHF).

In addition to choosing the antenna parameters, remember something equally important that needs to be taken into account during installation. We are talking about the height of the installed antenna. There are cases, and they are far from isolated, when even the most powerful antenna for signal reception will not help. But it is enough to raise the antenna height by a couple of meters, and it turns out that the old, less powerful one would be enough.

International standards for the area of ​​reliable television reception are published based on the calculation of the height of the antenna:

For rural areas at least 10 m
- suburb, at least 20 m
- city 30 m

Therefore, the best solution for mounting the antenna is the highest point, i.e. the roof.

And at the end of the article, I bring to your attention a video from RTRS - How to set up an antenna for receiving digital terrestrial TV. Possible problems and ways to solve them.

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