A digital signal amplifier is a device that improves reception by increasing the strength of an incoming digital television signal. The amplifier can only improve signals that it is already receiving in part, and it cannot extend the range of any existing antennas to which it is connected. Its purpose is to allow a signal to travel an additional short distance from an antenna to a television or convertor box, via any necessary wires.
The nature of a digital signal necessitates the use of a digital signal amplifier in some areas or buildings. Analog signals are far more resilient than digital signals, and they can pass through many barriers and atmospheric conditions without being completely absorbed. A digital signal has a shorter range and is susceptible to a wider range of environmental conditions over a longer distance.
Digital signal amplifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some of them are integrated into antennas designed for indoor use. Others are stand-alone devices that can be connected to indoor or outdoor antennas. An antenna must be connected to the amplifier. This is because the amount of resistance encountered by the digital signal as it travels through the cables connecting the television to the antenna is sufficient to degrade the signal to the point where it cannot be converted into an image.
A digital signal amplifier can also be used as a component in a larger system. Having the signal pass through multiple components, just like an antenna and its associated cable, can weaken it to the point where it never reaches the television or converter box. Amplifiers can be built into the design of some components, such as line splitters, to strengthen the signal as it moves in and out of installed electronics.
The use of a digital signal amplifier is just one step in ensuring that a signal is properly received and converted. Another factor to consider is the signal’s source direction. Because digital signals have a limited ability to pass through obstacles, even something as simple as pointing an amplified antenna in the wrong direction can have a significant impact.
A digital cable signal amplifier is a similar device. It functions similarly to a digital signal amplifier, with the exception that it is designed to be used inside a home. This is due to the fact that a digital signal received over a cable line can only travel a maximum of 15 feet (approximately 5 meters) before degrading.