Have you ever wondered where TV channels and where they come from? We a TV transmitter is responsible. To watch live TV channels, your antenna or aerial needs to receive signals from a TV transmitter; a TV transmitter converts audio and video signals of a television program into modulated radio-frequency energy which is broadcasted. This energy is transmitted either via ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) and very-high-frequency (VHF) waves, the two types of waves carry information which then your TV transforms back to picture and sound.
To achieve the best reception, you need to get your antenna point or alignment right (antennas typically receive signals in one direction). Your antenna must point towards the broadcasting transmitter that provides the best television signal for your location. If a certain series of questions are running through your mind like: Where is my nearest TV transmitter in Australia? How do I locate or choose the best TV transmitter in Australia for my TV aerial? Well, the good news is we are here to answer all your questions. Keep reading this article to find out.
Government Tool for Digital TV Coverage and Eligibility for Satellite Access
With the support of the Australian Government, TV broadcasters provide all Australians with services that allow them to receive free-to-air television (via satellite or terrestrially), provided they have good TV reception.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulates all broadcasting transmitters in Australia. They offer public access to the list of licensed broadcasting transmitters. All you have to do is enter your full address, and you can find the nearest transmitter in your areas. The information available on each transmitter includes:
- Service area
- License number
- Power
- Frequency
- Purpose
- Station call sign
- Pattern
You can also check out your digital TV coverage and eligibility for satellite access via the mySwitch website. Satellite TV typically give you more options and with mySwitch you can find the availability in your location.
Why is My Antenna Is Not Picking Up Channels?
It is a common experience among thousands of people to switch on their TV, and it displays no signal although everything is plugged in, or you run a channel scan and you can no longer find what you are looking for. Many things can cause antenna detection problems. Let’s discuss why your antenna is not picking up your channels. Below are the potential reasons hindering you from watching your favorites TV shows:
1. Your Location: Australians live in various geographical locations, from isolated areas to large cities. Your antenna’s TV signal from a transmitter depends on where you live. If your location is too far from broadcast towers, your antenna may have trouble picking up channels.
2. The Height of Your Antenna: This applies if you have an external/outdoor antenna. Objects like buildings or trees between your antenna and the broadcasting tower may interrupt signals. So new buildings in your area of even trees overtime can affect your reception.
3. Your external antenna may have shifted: A little change in your antenna’s position and angle can significantly affect or completely eliminate reception. Note that this is more common than you might think, common causes include storms, rain, or wind.
4. Multiple Connections: if you have many splitters connecting to your antenna cable, you may weaken signal strength
5. Faulty Amplifier or TV Digital Tuner: An antenna that requires power uses an amplifier. A bad amplifier or digital tuner can lead to a glitch in reception on your TV.
6. Loose Cables: You are likely to get no signal/channels or flicking signal if the cables of your antenna are loose or damaged.
7. Change in Stations’ Frequency: If you receive some channels but some are not working for some reason than their frequencies may have changed. Maybe its time to rescan and setup your channels.
How Can I Boost My Antenna Signal?
By understanding what causes reception problems, you can avoid them to get the most from your TV antenna. You can also do the following to boost your antenna signal:
- Get rid of all obstacles if possible. Ensure your antenna has a clear view in the direction of the broadcasting transmitter.
- Make sure your antenna, TV cables, and connection terminals are secure. Check for rusts, breaks, frays, and cuts. Replace bad cables and connections.
- Run a channel scan periodically to receive new channels that may be added.
- Find out the locations of broadcast towers in your area. This helps with aiming your antenna for better reception.
- Placing an indoor antenna near or on a window prevents signal interference caused by building materials. Ensure you set it as high as possible.
- If you have trouble receiving signals, you can try to use a signal amplifier. Place it between your TV and the antenna. Amplifiers boost signal strength to access transmission towers.
- If your location is too close to the TV transmitter and the signal appears too strong. You can use an attenuator to reduce the signal strength.
- If you’ve done all you can to boost your present antenna signal and it’s not working, you may need to contact a professional.
Where are TV Transmitters Typically Located In Australia?
All TV antennas in Australia receive signals from a transmission antenna (transmitter) nearest them. TV transmitters in Australia are usually located on a high tower or the highest point of a building for effective signal radiation to the intended location. Transmitted signals need a clear path to the antennas. These TV transmitters and their locations are licensed and regulated by AMCA the Artarmon Triangle towers in Sydney.
The most common cause of bad TV reception is your antenna’s improper installation and placement. You can get the best reception if your antenna points towards the transmitter tower with the best coverage for your area. However, it may be impossible if you don’t know where is the nearest TV transmitter in your location. Luckily, we have talked about the easiest way to locate the nearest TV transmitter before. We are always happy to help if you need further assistance on this topic.
