Bad TV Reception? Here's One Fix

August 27, 5:02 PM [GMT -5]

Gentlemen,

Just to point out an even bigger problem in your picture example, the ground block you show is mounted incorrectly in a horizontal position, therefore inviting moisture, as in rain, to run right in to the backside of the F-fittings, promoting corrosion.

Ground blocks should always be mounted vertically with the cable being brought down on either side past the connector, forming a drip loop back around to make the actual connection. This practice will allow the water following the cable, to drip off before even getting to the connector. And needless to say with the connectors then sitting in a horizontal position, moisture is less likely to be absorbed into the fittings. The threads of the ground block should also be lightly greased with a dialectric compund to prevent any ingress or eggress of signal. Hope this helps.

Repectfully,
Mark H. Oakley
26 yrs. Service Electric Cable TV
( 1st Cable Company in the Nation)

August 26, 8:00 PM [GMT -5]

1 cable line to house

hook-ups for 4 tv s'

only 2 used

2 different hand tools required at $20.00 plus each

2 or 3 connectors required...BUT ONLY SOLD IN BULK...at least 20 or more per pk

may need new cable lines...cost unknown

Don't think the EXPERT really did research on this one

August 26, 7:36 PM [GMT -5]

Compression fittings and the compression tool are significantly more expensive than crimp fittings and tools. I have used both and it is not clear that going the compression route is worth the additional cost.

October 16, 6:18 PM [GMT -5]

Although you are correct that corroded 'F" fittings will cause reception problems, and should be fixed, you are however incorrect in the positioning of the ground block in your photo example. Ground blocks, or splitters, if not in an enclosure, should always be mounted vertical, not horizontal. The horizontal position exposes the open end of the fitting, inviting water or moisture to run right in, greatly reducing the life of the fitting, and connection as a whole. Mounting vertically, with a propper drip loop in the cable, not only looks neater than your example, but also ensures most moisture to fall away before reaching the fittings, thus keeping corrosion to a minimum. Hopfully passing this on will help some people, as I see a lot of DIYers making this mistake