It’s no surprise that satellite TV costs a lot of money. From the equipment to the subscription package to maintenance, satellite television providers ask for a considerable sum of money every month. Why go for that when you can just use an aerial to watch terrestrial broadcasts for free instead?
Chances are you already have decided to drop your satellite TV for a Freeview aerial, yet confused about whether the cable needs to be replaced or not. Many people ask this question because of the similarities between the used cable connectors for satellite equipment and aerials.
To find out your answer, make sure to go through this informational guide until the very end.
Can You Use Satellite Cable For TV Aerial?
Yes, you can repurpose your satellite cable for TV aerial. In fact, they both use the same coaxial cable with F-type connectors. If the connector on the coaxial cable is different, you will need to change it to an F-type to get the cable working with aerials, televisions, and receiver boxes.
It doesn’t matter if it’s an old cable since it should still be capable of transmitting high-definition AV signals. If you really wish to get a new coaxial cable for aerial, check out the best options below.
1. Philex 27600FW25
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The following coaxial cable is suitable for aerial and satellite signal transmission. It’s a 25 meters long double-screen copper cable that delivers optimal video and audio quality. There’s meter marking on the cable, making it simpler for users to cut the cable in precise length.
Philex 27600FW25 is backed by twelve months of the manufacturer warranty.
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2. Monoprice RG6 Quad Shield Coaxial Cable
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If you want a coaxial cable with F-type connectors pre-installed on both ends, consider buying the Monoprice RG6 cable. It’s a 7.5-meter cable ideal for mostly indoor usage, starting from aerials all the way to the set-top boxes. It costs £15, but the price varies depending on the seller.
This RG6 coaxial cable has heavy-duty shielding, with pure mylar shielding and aluminum braid. The CL2-rated PVC jacket makes the cable durable and weatherproof. The F-type connectors are also gold-plated, which minimizes interference and ensures maximum signal transfer.
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Is it Easy to Convert a Satellite Cable for TV Aerial?
As we suggested previously, both satellite and aerial use coaxial cables for signal transmission. Such cables are also used by traditional cable TV providers, broadband services, and audio equipment. Simply put, coaxial cables are quite versatile.
If you have a relatively older coaxial cable, then it should still work. The only problem you might face is the connector type, which needs to be F-type for the cable to work with TVs and set-top receivers. In case your television does have Freeview built-in, it must have an F-type coaxial port. Else, you have to invest in a new Freeview box.
Assuming that the satellite cable already has an F-type coax connector, all you have to do is detach it from the satellite’s end and use the locking mechanism to connect it to your aerial firmly. The other end of the cable should be connected to your TV or Freeview box’s coaxial port.
In cases where the satellite cable doesn’t use an F-type connector or has a bent copper screw inside, you will have to strip the old connector off the cable and refit a new F-type connector on it.
Guide to fit an F-type Connector to a Coax Cable
The following steps will guide you through the process of refitting an F-type connector to a coaxial cable:
- First, strip the old connector from the coaxial cable using a pair of pliers.
- Now use a coax cable crimper to remove 12 mm of the cable’s outer sheathing/jacket.
- Twist the metal braids off the cable and ensure there aren’t any of them inside.
- After that, take out the foil shield with a wire stripper to expose the white polyurethane foam layer.
- Finally, use a cable compressor to secure the coaxial cable into the F-type connector.
- You need to make sure that the connector is firmly set on the cable. In addition, cut off the excess copper pin if necessary.
If you are looking for a step-by-step video tutorial, this guide from Phil Crockett on YT should help you install an F-type connector to the coax cable.
Can you Connect a Satellite Dish Cable to a TV?
As long as you have a TV with a built-in satellite tuner, you can connect a satellite dish cable directly to it. Otherwise, an external receiver box is necessary for tuning into the channels.
With the correct setup, you can expect to receive free satellite channels like BBC One, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, and many more. Chances are you only watch the following channels, so there’s no point paying extra for a subscription package with channels that you don’t even enjoy.
Alternatively, you can use an aerial that picks up local terrestrial broadcasts, mostly known as Freeview in the UK. It’s straightforward to configure and doesn’t ask users to pay a monthly fee.
Can you watch Freeview Using a Satellite Dish?
Unfortunately, you can’t watch Freeview channels using a satellite dish. It requires an aerial compatible with Freeview’s local terrestrial signal frequencies for SD and HD channels.
Having said that, subscription-free satellite TV services like Freesat should work with your existing satellite dish, offering up to 170 television and radio channels. The only downside of Freesat is that you need to align the dish properly to get an ideal signal reception.
Are Freeview and Freesat the Same?
No. Freeview channels are transmitted over-the-air via dedicated broadcast towers across 98% of the UK. It also requires a supported aerial and Freeview tuner to work.
On the other hand, Freesat channels are broadcasted all over the UK via geostationary communications satellites. Unlike Freeview, it’s more resilient to adverse weather conditions. It needs a proper satellite dish and a Freesat box to function.
Both services have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, but your choice mostly depends on your existing setup. However, you can carry a portable display and aerial with you during road trips or camping and still enjoy watching Freeview channels on the go, which is something you can’t do with Freesat.
If you have a TV or receiver that integrates both Freeview and Freesat tuners, you can take advantage of both services simultaneously. With a DVR, you can also record your favorite programming on Freeview or Freesat and watch them later when you have time.
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Finishing Up
Hopefully, this guide has answered your questions regarding the use of satellite cables for aerial. It takes only a few modifications to make a coaxial cable usable for carrying aerial signals, which you can do yourself with the proper tools.
In case the cable already has an F-type connector, you won’t even need to make any further adjustments other than plugging it into the required equipment.