TV Aerial Services

How To Install a Masthead Amplifier and Power Supply

How to Install a Masthead Amplifier & Power Supply?

A masthead amplifier is a great way to boost the signal of your TV. The device works to boost the signal where it is strongest – your TV aerial – and sends the boosted signal through the coaxial cable to your TV.

However, for the device to operate, you will need to make sure you have a Masthead power supply. This is supplied through the coaxial cable which connects the power unit to the amplifier. For this to work effectively, you need to make sure that the power supply is uninterrupted and is not intercepted on the route.

Below we will talk you through everything you need to know about how to install a TV masthead amplifier and a masthead amplifier power supply. Follow our clear steps below and you should be enjoying a better signal at home in no time!

How to Install a Masthead Amplifier and Masthead Power Supply

Before you begin to install a TV masthead amplifier, you will need to make sure that you choose the best model for your requirements.

What to Consider When Choosing a Masthead Amplifier.

Wideband Masthead Amplifiers

The majority of masthead amplifiers are wideband and, since the release of 4G, go up to channel 60. This is something to be aware of if you are using transmitters in Dover or Brighton as this may result in some channels being filtered out.
If in doubt, give the experts a call to make sure you are selecting the correct option for your area.

The Number of Outputs on the Masthead Amplifier

If you are looking to amplify the signal for one TV alone, then you should choose a one-output device. However, some devices allow you to boost the signal for several TVs in the building with 4, 5, 6, and 8 output amplifiers available.

The Level of Signal Gain from the TV Masthead Amplifier

One of the most important factors is of course exactly how much signal gain you will get when the masthead amplifier is installed. This can vary according to the model, an average signal gain is usually around the 10 dB mark, but some masthead amplifiers can offer a variable gain between 15 and 27 dB.

How much of a signal gain you need will depend on how weak the TV reception is in your area.

Make Sure to Match the Power Supply

You need to ensure that the masthead power supply requirements match the volts of your current power. A high-output power supply that doesn’t match the device will lead to damage and faulty service.

Where Do You Install a TV Masthead Amplifier?

You should install the masthead amplifier as close to the aerial mast but try to maintain a distance of about 1 metre from the aerial itself. The majority of devices will include a strap or cable to allow you to connect the masthead amplifier directly to the pole.

Make sure to consider accessibility when installing the amplifier, it needs to be reachable if you want to repair or maintain it.

Where Do You Install the Masthead Power Supply Unit?

You can install the masthead power supply unit in the loft or in another out-of-the-way area where it is accessible but unlikely to be switched off accidentally. You can also consider placing it directly behind your TV and marking it with a sticker or label to make sure you don’t disconnect it.

Installing a TV Masthead Amplifier – Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have picked the best masthead amplifier for your requirements and decided where to place your masthead power supply unit, the process itself is quite straightforward.

Connect the aerial input directly to the TV Masthead Amplifier.
Install the cable between the power supply unit and the masthead amplifier.
Connect the power supply unit to the main supply.
Then connect the output cable of the Masthead Amplifier to the DC distribution section.
The final step is to then connect the output coaxial cable on the power supply unit to the TV.