Hooking up a big outdoor TV antenna to my scanner?

Question

Is this a good idea? I was thinking I might be able to get a lot more communication like HAM radio and air. If it's doable, it's looks like I'll need some kind of adapter to go from coax to the bnc antenna connector on the radio. Thanks for any help!

Answer 1

As far as the adapters go, you may need some male - female, male-male,female-female. The adaptor that you plug into theh scanner or radio is usually male. I've been in radios for years, started out in c-b, then went ham (amateur radio). When you go to get these, tell the person what you need them for, how much coax-cable your using, height if antenna, length from radio/scanner to antenna. You may need this information. I'm sure somebody there can help you with that, the types you need and all. Being in radios about all my life, I know some of that.

  Good Luck.

Answer 2

Let's go to your actual question: "Is it a good idea?"

Unless you live in an unincorporated area - no! The neighbors might be a bit put out. Seriously, check local ordinances first. THEN check out the tekkie answers ;<)

-a guy named duh

Answer 3

It's do able but you are limited to the direction the antenna is pointed in and then will do better on some frequencies than others.

But it's a great antenna for directional listening as long as it's not VHF low (30-50 MHz) you are after.