Knowing some Cable TV wiring secrets will help you get the clearest picture possible.
Spending a lot of money for a new TV will not pay off if the cable supplying the signal to your TV is not installed correctly. By following a few secrets of the cable and satellite TV installers' trade, you can repair any damage or make sure the coaxial lines are delivering the best picture possible.
Cable Runs
In his book, "Housebuilding: A Do-it-yourself Guide," R.J. DeCristoforo says one key to getting the strongest possible signal strength is to avoid putting too many splitters in the line. Each splitter cuts the signal by half; so homeowners should configure their cabling system so the signal comes straight from the source, whether it's the cable TV company's incoming line or the line from your satellite TV dish. DeCristoforo also recommends using the best-quality RG-6 cable, available at electronics or home improvement stores.
Service Loops
Satellite TV installer Sen Saechao warns that if a cable is bent 90 degrees or more, it can cause significant signal loss or distortion. Saechao says that is one reason why professional installers use service loops where cable lines are connected to ground blocks, splitters or other equipment. The loops are about the size of a fist and are connected to the home or wall with small plastic clips--never staples--to allow the signal to move smoothly.
Fittings
Saechao also says fittings on the cable line must be put on correctly with a tool called a crimper to keep them water tight. He adds that the center conductor, that middle part of the cable that actually carries the signal, must be flush with the bottom of the fitting so that it does not allow any TV signal to escape or any outside radio frequencies to interfere with it.
Connectors
When connecting a line to a TV, cable box, VCR or DVD, the fitting should only be put on hand-tight, installer Sen Saechao says. But he adds that if a homeowner plans on doing any work on the cable lines, she should invest in a torque wrench especially designed to tighten fittings with 30 pounds of force. This will ensure fittings will not leak or loosen.
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