CATV line amplifier

[Markbnj]

Hey guys, I have a long cable run to the office where my computer (with TV Wonder) and cable modem are located. The cable modem has never had any problems, but there are some artifacts present when I watch TV that might indicate the signal is weak. It's on the order of a 45-50 foot run with two good splitters.

So I am thinking about putting in an amplifier, and looking for some advice. I figure I can either put in a bidirectional at the service entry point and boost the whole network inside the house, or I can put a simpler unidirectional in on the line right after the cable modem, and just boost to my computer. How much gain do I want? 10 db and 20 db seem to be the most common. Is adjustable gain adviseable?

Thanks for any pointers.

 

[Markbnj]

Shameless bump.

 

[Markbnj]

Come on, with all the video heads here there has to be someone who knows the answer.

 

[Wallysaurus]

I'm using this one and I am very happy with it. They also offer this one if you don't need the extra outputs.

 

[junkyardDawg]

I've got a bi-directional in front (service side) of my first splitter. You want to boost the signal before it weakens, not after.

 

[Ig]

http://www.lotsaspotz.com/Info/TV_AMP_EDUCATION.htm

That page has some good info on CATV amps/splitters/etc. I just put in a Motorola Signal Booster. I put it after the cable modem split but before the split to the different floors and minimized the splitters. I say if the cable modem is working just fine, don't mess with it Before I would get constant drops on a few digital channels and some analog channels were a bit noisy. Everything is working great now.

One thing to try is remove all the splitters (and replace them with couplers) and see if you can get a good picture at your farthest outlet. Then calculate how much the splits are reducing your signal (a 2way splitter cuts signal strength in half). That should give you an idea of how much you need to boost your signal. You'll also need to make sure you don't over boost the signal on the closer outlets. Know your wiring layout and figure out what works best for you.

 

[Markbnj]

Now we're talking. Thanks for the tips, guys. I like the idea of putting a powered amp at the service entry point and boosting the whole network. There are at least two splitters between that point and the main TV in the family room, which is on the order of 35 feet straightline. I was considering adjustable gain so that I can crank it back a bit if it overamps the first set.

Edit: wow, great info page Ig. Thanks.