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Aiming Antennas
Here are a few high-level antenna installation steps to adhere to:
1. During the installation, use a good signal meter which can measure both the signal level and the signal quality.
While aiming, you should prioritize signal quality over signal strength. Better quality is more important than
receiving stronger signals. Analyze signal QUALITY by measuring either the MER or SNR level.
2. Install the antenna as high as possible. The higher the antenna, the fewer obstructions exist in the signal path
and the lower the impact from ground reflections will be. However, taller masts are more susceptible sway
and being “de-tuned” by wind gusts. Guidewires and similar support should be considered.
3. For sites where direct line-of site isn’t possible, you’ll need to try several dierent antenna locations. The
optimal placement may or may not require pointing the antenna directly at the broadcast tower. Aiming the
antenna toward a reflection point may provide an improvement.
4. Slowly rotate the antenna to the left and right to find the direction with the highest signal quality for each
desired channel. Leave the antenna in the position which provides the best overall signal quality for the
desired channels. This process likely will involve moving the antenna to dierent locations on the roof or
property as even a 5-foot move can significantly improve signal quality.
Additional installation steps are outlined in the best practices document.
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