There is a myth developing in the industry that all digital transmissions in the UK require the use of a wideband aerial. However, many transmitters, even with digital channels added, remain within Group “A” channels 21-37.

The use of a wideband aerial on these transmitters means reduced performance of the required channels. Normally, the more channels an aerial is designed to cover, the lower the gain on any particular channel when compared to a narrow band aerial.

This factor is also true for a Group “A” aerial with a typical difference in gain of 5dB between channel 21 and channel 37. This means that the lower channels are not received as strongly as the higher channels, thus resulting in poorer performance of the digital TV multiplexes at the bottom of Group “A”.

FR have considered the UK Group “A” requirements very carefully and tuned the SG8 to perform better at the lower frequencies. This has created a Group “A” aerial with only a 3dB difference in gain between the highest and lowest channels (see performance graph opposite).

This will benefit digital and analogue customers alike. An extra couple of dB can make all the difference on digital as well as the old analogue channels when struggling for maximum signal in fringe reception areas.

The MATV installer will also appreciate this flatter response because it means that all channels are more equal before launching into the network.

Built to the same high mechanical and electrical standards as other FR aerials, such as the BLU series, the SG8 Super “A” is robust with its polypropylene mouldings, aluminium wire rod sets and 18mm one piece boom. The mesh grid reflector and low profile directors keep wind loading to a minimum.

A balun for accurate cable matching is installed in the junction box, which has a positive and secure screw on lid. An optional cradle and tilt clamp are available.

SG8 Super “A” comes flat packed for maximum storage and transport efficiency and yet is part pre-assembled for speed of installation.