Tag Archives: clearstream 2

Question: I have a 1996 Magnavox Analog TV, and I connected the Clearstream2 antenna to it. However, I’m not getting any reception or channels after rescanning the TV. Do I need a special tuner or any other equipment to get the channels?  Thanks, Mel

Hi Mel,

The reason why you are not receiving any reception when you hook up your Clearstream2 to your 1996 television is because your television does not have a digital tuner built in, so it can not read the over-the-air signals that are now broadcasting digitally. Your older television was made to pick up analogue signals. Since the digital switch in 2009, you need a converter box to convert these signals on your specific television.

So you have two options. The cheaper option is to go find/buy a digital to analog TV converter box that hooks to your television and your antenna. Converter boxes can range in price from around $40 – $70. Now you can even find some used on Amazon.com.

The other more expensive option is to buy a new television that has a digital tuner already built in. All new televisions in stores should be ready to pick up digital signals. Most television made after 2007 also have digital tuners. However, even with a new television you will need to hook up an antenna to it to receive free over-the-air TV.

Hope that helps! Thanks!

I am trying to set up a TV in my hot dog truck. I recently bought a clearstream2, I live approx 35 miles north of New York City. Just tonight I bought a new 19″ sylvania HDTV. I only get 3 channels. Does it matter where I am located for a good signal? From Joseph in New York.

Hi Joseph,

Unfortunately the digital transition in 2009 was not kind to people watching over-the-air television while traveling in cars, trucks and RVs. From what we have heard is that most people can receive digital signals when they are stopped, but almost none when they are in motion (which is probably a good thing).

Yes it one-hundred percent matters where you are located. This will determine how good of a signal you receive. It not only matters where exactly your truck is parked but also what direction your antenna is pointing and what structures might be in the way of the signal path such as buildings and trees.

Sorry Joseph, you have many things working against you here. We would recommend putting your ClearStream2 digital antenna in your house and looking into RV antennas that can be elevated above your truck roof.

I installed a CS2 last summer to receive stations from Portland ~50 miles away. When we have clear skies here, it is great reception. However, when there are low clouds or heavy weather (very rainy winters here), I lose some stations. If I add another CS2 in-line with my existing one, will it improve my reception during these times? If so, is it a simple procedure? Thanks! From David in Salem, Oregon

Hi David,

Stormy Weather

Even though the weather doesn’t affect television reception as badly as in the analog days, it can be affected by severe weather conditions such as storms and high winds. This is usually caused by impediments and fluctuations in your broadcast signal from things such as moving debris and trees. If your ClearStream2 is inside or in your attic, we would first recommend moving it outside to your roof. If your CS2 is already outside make sure it is secured to try and minimize antenna movement on your end.

A second antenna might help with your signal loss. However, antennas tend to interfere with each other and you can lose signal where the two coax runs join, so stacking antennas does not always work. So number one, I would recommend getting your antenna outdoors if it isn’t already. And instead of another antenna I would use a pre amplifier. Because you are getting good signals in good weather a pre amplifier should boost these signals.