[mythtv-users] cable distribution amplifiers

[Jason Cooper]

Josh (jishywa at wi.rr.com) scribbled:
> We sell them at radioshack, and 75% of the time they come back the next day.
> I'd stay away from them if possible. A better option is to reduce cable runs
> where possible and look for worn through insulation and shielding as well as
> rust on the ends. A good high quality cable helps too; get some of that quad
> shielded stuff for the longest runs in your house if you feel like
> replacing.
> 
> If you must go with a cable amp, put it as close to the cable entry point in
> your house as possible. Otherwise you run into Garbage in -> Garbage out.
> 
> Good luck
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: mythtv-users-bounces at mythtv.org
> [mailto:mythtv-users-bounces at mythtv.org] On Behalf Of Tony Lill
> Sent: Sunday, March 07, 2004 6:46 PM
> To: mythtv-users at mythtv.org
> Subject: [mythtv-users] cable distribution amplifiers
> 
> Since I've added my mythtv box with it's 2 capture cards, my cable
> signal has been a bit weak (go figure)! Has anyone tried a cable amp,
> and do they work well?

I'm not sure if you guys have DSL, cable-modems, or both in the great
white north.  If you happen to have a cable modem, make sure it is _not_
included in the amplified string.  Otherwise upstream data will be
attenuated by the amplifier, resulting in no connection.  

I do remember about 15 or so years ago, cable was new and the signals
were not strong.  Back then, they made a big deal out of splicing your
own cable to multiple rooms.  In those days an amp helped, these days
the signal is plenty strong enough (cable co gave up? :) 

Before you go rewiring your house (unless you see worn spots in the
cable), go through and replace the connectors, then make sure they are
securely plugged in to the devices (TVs, tuner cards, modem, etc).  I've
found most times that a bad signal (weak) is due to insufficient
shielding.  Which occurs a lot when cable installers do a half ass job
putting the connectors on the lines.  Make sure to get the ones behind
the wall plates as well.  Especially if they run near power cables.

HTH,

Cooper.