Diplexer v. Splitter

[kmm]

I installed the Terk TV55 in my attic along with the Terk signal amp. I first tested it without and signal splitting and I pick up three stations that I want with pretty good reception. I then ran the OTA cable to my basement. I then used a diplexer to combine the SAT & OTA signal. At my receiver, I use another diplexer to split the SAT & OTA signal into the receiver inputs. When I use the diplexers my signal strength is lost. I checked my connections to ensure I didn't split them backwards. Can I use two diplexers for this set up? Or do I need a diplexer and a splitter? Are all diplexers the same? (I bought mine at Home Depot)
Should I be installing the signal amp near the receiver or antenna?

Thanks!

[rcbridge]

It sounds like you are combining your ota with an amplifier to a sat feed if this is correct,
observe the following , make sure the low side OTA will not pass DC. and the high side will pass DC (for the sat lnb to work). Let us know if this is the case.

[kmm]

To be honest, I don't really know. I though getting OTA channels would be easy....I guess not. Can you explain about high and low DC for me?
Thanks

[chewey]

Is this setup to pick up digital OTA channels? If so, I think diplexing the signal can screw up your strength.

Plus, I have tried the terk 55 and honestly think it is one the worst antennas at picking up hd. Return it if you can.

[kmm]

Yes, the set up is to pick up OTA HD signals only. I have a 18X24 dish picking up my locals from DirectTV.
I have heard that about the TV55 but I have been surprised so far. I have 30 days to return it so I am not "sold" on it yet.
I may just run a dedicated cable to my receiver if there are no diplexer options.
What antenna would you reccommend? (I am in north of Pittsburgh and about 10-20 miles from FOX, NBC & CBS, all within close proximity of each other)
I definately want an antenna to put in my unfinshed attic.
Thanks

[rcbridge]

Are you using this antenna for multiple sets? If not you stated you are only 10-20 miles away from the antenna towers, you can probably get away with an indoor antenna perhaps with an amplifier I am in that situation and I use a Zenith silver sensor with a Motorola signal booster and I pick up all the Philadelphia stations.
I don't have an outdoor antenna so I can't recommend one.
If you eventually use an outdoor antenna with a diplexer, when looking at it the ports will be labeled hi and low the (that refers to the frequency ranges) the sat feed will use the high side in and out and the OTA will use the low side.
The sat input (high side) needs to pass DC to control the switch in your LNB it should be marked with DC pass (or something similar).
The low side needs to block the DC, if you are not sure give me the name and model of the diplexer.

[samrs]

Looked up the Terk, comes with a power inserter. Most diplexers dont pass power on the antenna side. Reckon the Terk needs some power for the amp. If you put the power inserter in your basement between the diplexer an antenna should perk up your Terk.

[oljim]

attic,terk and diplexers ALL bad idea. Get a real ant like CM run cable for ant and put it outside

[CharlesA]

If you use an antenna that is not amplified you should be able to use a pair of diplexers.

FWIW: I put up a UHF antenna, 8 bay bowtie, and get OTA HD from 39.9 miles away. granted it is 16' above my roof. Signal strength on my 921 is 125, 125, and 112 for three various channels