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SOLUTIONS
Spectrum Repack: Antenna, Line and Tower
As with your RF system, it is wise to evaluate the state of your current antenna/line/tower configuration, especially if your station will be changing bands, boosting power output, and/or increasing the number of channels you plan to broadcast. You may want - or need - to take this opportunity to get up to code on antenna structure standards and specifications.
Key Antenna/Line/Tower Considerations
Determine if You are Changing Frequency Bands from UHF to VHF
- If Yes → Antenna replacement required depending on frequency shift.
- If No → Check antenna (broadband vs. single channel) order new if needed.
System Power Limits
- Am I increasing RF power?
- If Broadband antenna - check antenna power rating
If Needing a New Antenna
- Cost and delivery
- Installation and logistics
- Consider incorporating Vpol to help in 3.0 mobile reception
Tower Structure
- Tower analysis – does it meet TIA-222 Rev G specifications (Standard for antenna supporting structures and antennas)?
- Will it support weight and wind load of new antenna?
- Availability of qualified tower crews
- Auxiliary antenna or back up site while main work is being done
Transmission Line/Waveguide
- Check if existing line will work on new channel
- Consult line manufacturer
- Evaluate bandwidth and VSWR performance prior to antenna change
- If line replacement is needed, establish budget early
- Availability of skilled riggers/tower crews
- Timing and unforeseen weather delays
Additional Info
Dielectric: Your Guide to the FCC TV Channel Repack
See also:
Are You Ready for the Spectrum Repack?