Question: Aerial Connection Problem
We’ve just gone with BT to use their BT Vision. The flat previously was with Virgin Media. We’ve got our BT Vision box now, but we are having trouble connecting to an external aerial. At the wall socket, where we would ordinarily just stick in the tv cable (as most normal flats have), we have a two prong device. We basically don’t know how to connect our bt vision box to the outside aerial.
Submitted online by Vanessa
Our Answer
OK. To get TV channels, the BT Vision box needs to be connected to a TV aerial. Unless you’re in a very strong Freeview coverage area, that TV aerial should be outside, normally on the roof.
You mention that the property previously had the Virgin Media cable TV service… it’s important not to use this system to connect to the BT Vision box.
BT Vision uses a TV aerial to get live TV channels, and Virgin use underground fibre-optic cables for its TV service.
BT Vision’s TV channels are delivered using the Freeview service, and a TV aerial is required for Freeview.
Connecting to a TV Aerial
To connect your BT Vision box to the TV aerial, you need to plug a feed from the aerial into the back of the BT Vision socket.
Connect the feed from the TV aerial to the RF In socket, pictured here:
The BT Vision Box RF In Aerial Socket Connector
Where is my TV aerial feed?
If you’re struggling to find the feed from your TV aerial, here’s what you should be looking for:
Wall-mounted TV aerial point:
A TV Aerial Wall Socket
A loose TV aerial cable
A TV Aerial Plug connected to a TV aerial
Can I use my Virgin connector for BT Vision or Freeview?
No. Virgin use underground fibre-optic cables, and BT Vision / Freeview use a TV aerial. It’s different technology
Can I use a Sky / Satellite Dish connector for BT Vision or Freeview?
No. Satellite TV is delivered using a dish that points to an orbiting satellite. BT Vision / Freeview use a TV aerial pointing at a transmitter on land. It’s different technology
I don’t have a TV aerial!!
OK. If you don’t have a TV aerial, look in your phone book for a CAT-approved aerial installer, and get them to quote you for installing a TV aerial
Can I use an indoor TV aerial?
In some cases yes, but only in areas where there is a really strong Freeview signal.
To check, put your postcode into the Wolfbane Coverage Checker. Look under the “Antenna (suggestion) section. If it shows “set top aerial”, you could be OK to watch Freeview / BT Vision on an indoor aerial.
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