If you camp frequently but want to stay connected with the rest of the world, an RV TV can be the best solution. It offers both entertainment and information on the go for all digital nomads. However, setting up the antenna and TV requires some technical knowledge.
You can call a mechanic too but professional service warrants a good sum of money. Therefore, learning how to hook up TV to RV antenna could be handy for every RVer.
Contents
Recommended Accessories for Hooking up an Antenna to TV
Collecting the right types of equipment is the first condition for hooking up the antenna successfully. The accessories you will need to do the task.
Learning about them will help you understand how to hook up TV to RV antenna and if you can do the task by yourself.
RV Antenna
The TV antenna is vital equipment in setting up an RV TV. As it will go on the roof of the RV, choosing a weatherproof and UV resistant antenna will provide lasting service. There are many models that are compact but also powerful enough in terms of range.
Television
Obviously, an TV for RV is needed, so you can watch all of your favorite programs. Most contemporary antennas sync well with all the TV sets released after 2015. However, flat-screen HD TV sets are best suitable for RVs because of their space-saving design.
TV Antenna Rotator
If you are watching TV from your RV, rotating the antenna to get a clearer picture is the trouble you do not want to take. As you move, the antenna requires manual adjustment to get signals from the right direction. To make this cumbersome task simple, install an antenna rotator with the antenna. It allows adjusting the antenna using a remote control.
Many rotators also have the option of saving channel directions. When you opt for any channel, the rotator will ensure the best view by automatically moving in the right direction.
Signal Meter
For any RV enthusiast who regularly camps in various locations, an antenna signal meter is a must-have. This meter connects to the RV antenna cable and tests the signal strength whenever the antenna rotates.
With this device, you can easily find out the available stations within the range, helping with a quick setup of the TV set.
How to Hook Up TV to RV Antenna: A Complete Guide
Supposedly, there can be two situations. You may have an RV antenna already attached to your RV roof, or you may buy a new one that you need to fix. Here is how to hook up TV to RV antenna in either of these situations:
Method A: How to Hook Up TV to an Existing RV Antenna
If you already have an antenna for your motor house, performing these three steps is enough to hook up the antenna.
Step 1: Cable Plugging
First, you have to plug in the cables coming from the RV antenna to the back of the TV. If this is not possible, plug it into the control box. In the latter case, do not forget to connect the cables of the control box into the television.
For an HD supported antenna, there will be HDMI cables similar to the A/V cables. If the antenna is not HD supported, there will be coaxial cables that you have to screw into the back of the control box or the TV.
Step 2: Screw Mounting
Select a suitable area inside the camper for hanging the TV. Find a place where it will be most comfortable for you, and you do not need to change the set up in the future. After that, mount the screws in an accurate position.
Step 3: Bracket Attachment
Finally, join the television with TV brackets and then fasten them to the mounts.
Method B: How to Hook Up TV to a New Antenna
If you have a new antenna for the RV, it requires performing some additional steps for connecting the TV with the antenna.
Step 1: Setting up the Satellite Antenna
Unbox the satellite antenna set it up by strictly following the instructions that come from the manufacturer. Being extra careful at this stage will make sure that your antenna functions perfectly.
Step 2: Antenna Placement
The RV roof is the best place to attach your antenna, and you will need to use silicone caulk to do it properly. After applying the sealant, wait until it dries off completely. If you think gluing is not enough, screw the dish to the roof for extra support. Choose a stable spot, such as the backside, for attaching the antenna.
Step 3: Pass the Cables
Find the holes or hookups of your RV interior through which you can run the cables. Then run both the socket and power cables through the holes.
Step 4: Connect the cables
Connect one end of the cables to the antenna and another end to the control box or the TV. For the control box, do not forget to connect the control box cables to the RV TV.
Step 5: Screw Mounting and Attaching the Brackets
Just follow Step 2 and 3 of Method A.
This is how to hook up TV to RV antenna. The methods are easy and do not require any special mechanical knowledge. Also, follow these points if you want to get better signals from the antenna:
- To Receive High-Definition channels, you must get an HD antenna.
- Use the online application to find the nearest TV channels.
- You will need a special dish antenna to get DirecTv or Dish.
- Consider getting a TV antenna booster if the antenna cannot catch strong signals.
- You can also attach an RV FM antenna or Wi-fi Booster Antenna if needed.
Conclusion
The proper setup of the TV and RV antenna makes sure that you can still enjoy your favorite TV shows when camping. Keep in mind that investing in quality products is necessary to ensure quality performance.
By learning how to hook up TV to RV antenna, you can easily save the expenses of professional service and use that money to get high-quality devices.