There are various situations when you want to use a specific alignment tool that helps you see UHF spectrum as you align the TV aerials. Optimizing use is what is a necessity in such a case. When a meter is used to align TV aerials, the installation is practically done blindfolded. Sooner or later you will have a TV set that does not work. Aligning your TV aerials is practically all about the following when you utilize alignment tools.
Signal Strength
Signal strength is practically measured in dB. What you want to do is to maximize signal reading on the frequencies that are used. Most of the digital TV transmitters are broadcasting on around 6 or 7 frequencies that are named multiplexes. You want to take a different reading for every single one in order to have a perfect TV service signal.
Some of the transmitters are going to broadcast groups at a weaker strength. This is why you may have channels that are weaker. Multiplexes can end up being received really find while others are coming in at poor signals. This happens because of different possible interferences, like signals going through trees. Always try to avoid having aerials pointed towards trees.
As a reference, minimum signal that should be present at coaxial cable TV side should be over 50 dB while maximum should not go over 80 dB. Many owners do not even know about the fact that there is such a thing as maximum signal.
Although aerial signals will work a little below or above the mentioned signal levels, you want to achieve the figures. Try not to install really high gain aerials in a signal area that is high. Size attenuators are going to be needed in such a scenario.
Signal Quality
Besides signal strength, you need to maximize signal robustness and signal quality. You have a reading listed in C/N (Carrier to Noise) ratio. However, the MER (Modulation Error Ratio) method is always going to be more accurate as you use digital TV sets. These ratios are a little different but both use the exact same idea. It is important to have a gap between signal noise and signal strength in order to have really reliable TV reception. The reading should be over 30 dB while minimum needed when you work with digital TV is 25 dB. If problems exist, you will need to talk to a specialist for better configuration.
Having TV Aerials Set Up By Professionals
The two things that were mentioned above should be more than enough to highlight the fact that aligning TV aerials is not as easy as you might think. The truth is that the best thing you can do is to have someone work on the system for you. Those that install your aerials should be more than qualified to get the job done right. Work with them and allow them to align the aerials based on the exact specifications that have to be respected where you live.