Cable splitting question

[Entity]

Right now, I have a cable connection going from the wall, being split into two (one going downstairs, the other to the TV). The cable going to the TV is then split again, one going into the TV, the other going into the ReplayTV. Ever since I split the cable line for the Replay/Cable connection, I've noticed that local channels come in with ghosting and a lot of static. I'm not sure whether this is because of the connectors I'm using (there are some "push-on" coax connectors, which I've noticed seem worse than screw-on; I don't know why), or because I've got it split too many times.

One splitter - the split from the wall, splitting the upstairs and downstairs, is powered (http://pichosting.pcthike.com/randomrob/P4120006). Local channels don't look good either downstairs or upstairs, but they did before I added the ReplayTV splitter (non-powered).

Anyway, to make a long story short, I'm wondering what I should get from Radio Shack -- if I should get some new cables, or a new splitter, or what. Anyone have any ideas?

Rob

 

[LakerGod]

The static is caused by all the splitting. This has happened to me before. If you can, call your cable company to fix the problem. Or i think there is something called a "booster" that will help. Good luck.

 

[LordJezo]

I think you are supposed to split it someplace by where it first comes into your house..

 

[Rastus]

Splitters do attenuate the signal. They also are not symetrical with their attenuation, that is, one signal will be stronger than the other. Try swapping the outputs of all the splitters until you can get it to work.

 

[Entity]

Hmm -- if I were to try to boost it (using an amplifier, like http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&category%5Fname=CTLG%5F002%5F002%5F018%5F000&product%5Fid=15%2D1171 that), and I were to amplify it before any of the splits, should that fix this?

Rob

 

[Heisenberg]

A good quality connection can make a big difference. You might also try a straight amplifier. Amplify the signal coming into the house before you split it.

 

[Entity]

Hmm. This is odd. I just removed all splits, and -- guess what? -- the cable quality still sucks on those two channels. Guess it was just a coincidence that it started when I started splitting the channels.

Rob

 

[AlienCraft]

Simple solution... one 3 way splitter...1= Downstairs 2= Re-Play 3=TV
This should minimize reflections(ghosts) caused by connections of varying impedance.
Screw on connectors make for better contact, IMO.
Use a powered line amp to DRIVE a long line, not to try to make up gain already lost.
Do not leave any open ports on a TV splitter. Allows for RF leaks into system. There are terminator caps to close them.
Coaxial cable requires that the center conductor be the same distance from the shield for max performance, so DO NOT CRUSH PINCH or DEFORM coaxial cable.
HTH

 

[AlienCraft]

From Markertek Supply, RF Distribution amp on RCA connectors http://www.markertek.com/MTStore/product.CFM?BaseItem=KR-104R