Digital Converter box problem...

Question

I am using a digital converter box and am receiving a horribly, choppy picture. the picture fades in and out...What is the possible problem? it is a fairly new box, it is a magnavox brand. I also currently have an antennae hooked up to it. Do I need a different box, another anteannae or would some type of repositioning, etc, help. thanks

Answer 1

Digital is pretty much all or none.  It sounds like you are in a fringe area, just on the edge of none.  There is a chance you can improve things with a better antenna.  antennaweb.org might provide some help there.  I foung the page below to provide more useful information.

My first move would be to reposition your antenna to aim it at the stations you want/were getting.  If all you have is rabbit ears then position it so the ears are at right angles to the direction to the stations.  The page below will give you a compass heading to the stations.

The next step is to get a better antenna.  Any old style roof antenna would be my next move.  

The fine print at the top of the page below includes links that will help you figure out the numbers to be entered in the boxes.

Answer 2

Make sure that you are using thick s***w-on coaxial cables. If that is not the solution, there may be a problem with the digital converter box.