local tv reception

A basic antenna amplifier from malwart works wonders and better if you get a separate antenna instead of the factory multi plex setup.

I've got a 680 with the amplifier and flat rca digital antenna it works reasonably well. I got a longer 6ft antenna cable tied in so I can move the antenna around as needed.

I usually stick the antenna out the right side door on top of the mirror over the door.

You'll find sometimes if you move it from one side to the other or up on the dash it changes how many or how well the channels are that you get.

Keep in mind also in some rural areas you just aren't going to get good reception but that's the exception not the norm

 

The stock tv package is like every other multi-plex am/fm/CB/tv setup I've run in frieghtliners, volvos and kw's. They all suck. They're being tasked to do several functions in a one size fits none application.

I think the antenna is probably the more important part of the equation for the tv setup. I got a good antenna and a mid-range cost booster. Generally I get 8-10 channels in most areas. 20+ in metro areas and even in all but the most out of the way rural areas still get at least 2-4.

I also run a stand alone CB antenna setup as well for what that's worth and get much better reception than the stock setup.

 

I use this cool free app called "TV Antenna Helper" on my android phone. Will tell you where all the Tv stations are either by gps location, or any city you put in. Helps plan where you might stop for the night, knowing where the tv towers are in relation to your proposed parking space.

 

You can make a tv antenna from wire hangers 2x4 some wires and a connector from radio shack for about $25.

 

That's not a bad idea there. Antenna placement certainly makes a difference in how good the reception is

 

For sure. Antennal placement, and minimal interference (trucks passing back and forth) is critical. Boosters offer little to no help with digital signals. Either the signal is there or it isn't. A booster can't improve on a poor digital signal. Ideally, you need to be within 35 miles of the broadcast tower and not have any mountains or building between you and the tower. Further then that (up to 60 miles) is possible, but only with no outside interference and optimal conditions.

 

I'd agree to disagree on that lol

I've tested mine with and without the booster in several different areas and antenna placements. Big difference with or without it.

Interference is the big one. Never fails every time I get settled with plenty of channels or something I really want to watch some moron noses in beside me and his trailer kills the signal.

 

With these boosters is your antenna true tuned for the right freq? Most antennas arnt.