Splitting the input signal 4 times for the 3 TVs plus cable modem means each device is receiving a signal at least 12 dB down. Also Channel 65 is at 780 MHz where RG-6 has about 5.25 dB of loss per 100 feet. Assuming a 100 foot run to each one and adding some connector loss gives about 18 dB of signal attenuation even using high quality components.

RG-59, by comparison is around 12 dB of loss per 100 feet...
RG-11 is best with about 4 dB per 100, but is probably overkill...

I am with DK -- you definitely should replace the connectors and the RG-59, but I am guessing that your distribution system will still need a 20 dB amp from the Shack (I prefer the Motorola one for $50).

http://www.unicornelex.com/detail.php?itemno=28-1012&

 

Rarely if ever should you need an amp. I worked for the cable company for a while and I only had to add an amp once... that house had 22 TV's in a ranch. It was completely retarded.

As an example I have 3 TV's and a cable modem at my house an I have no troubles at all, nor any need for an amp. I'm at the end of the line on my street(its a dead end) The longest run is 225' and my house is about 1900 SF and on the second floor. The build is over 5000 SF in size.

I would be willing to bet if he just properly replaces the cable and connectors the problem would go away. I would VERY surprized if he needed to purchase an amp. Its not out of the realm of possiblities but it should be the last thing you buy.

 

I'm 2/3 completed and all I did was remove a splitted and amp and run the existing cable to the VCR then the TV.... the VCR tunner is newer so the picture is much better with TV at about 95%. Since the TV is better than 10 years its probably the tuner. I'll need to run a new line to the 3rd TV from the basement. Again appreciate the help.

 

Wow John, I had no idea you had this kind of knowledge. And here I thought you were good at just sanding fiberglass.

 

Versatility man... versatility

Oh and I can sand like the best of'um

 

RG6Q (quad) would be even better.

 

Quad shield is nice I use Belden Quadshield in my house.

 

hey Darkknight, a quick question from down under.
i have what we call "Foxtel", it runs from a satalite dish in the roof to a box which runs to the TV via RCA cables.

My question is, can i run rca's to the bedroom, without lossin signal? it would be a run of 15M ( 45-50' ). or is coax better? i am not sure if the foxtel box has a coax out.

any help would be great.

Thanks.

Chris.

 

You're better off running coax rather than RCAs that distance...

 

I'm not really familier with the Foxtel systems but yes you can get RCA's that long. You want to make sure you get digital coax RCA's. You can order them on the net. I looked this place up on google, http://www.cablestogo.com/product.asp?cat%...=2017&sku=29728