Trojan Boat Forum

I installed a TV and antenna on my radar arch this past week. If you're looking for a "free" setup you might be impressed with the number of over the air channels you receive. I get about 20 high def and one analog. The nice thing about the high def is it's all or none, meaning it's crystal clear or you don't get anything.

I installed a 14" Shakespeare Seawatch dome. For the TV, I looked for one that had approx 12-13v output from the transformer. I found a 17" Coby LED unit that fit the bill. I cut off the plug from the transformer, fused the + side and hardwired into the 12v system along with the amplifed part of the antenna. Doing it this way, I elminated the need for an inverter and it'll run off the 12v side whether I'm on shore power or not.

I don't know if this will work everywhere but one of the channels I pick up is the same NOAA weather broadcast on the VHF but now I have the visual on the map.

I also ran an extra cable to the stern so I can hook up to cable on shore if I wind up in a slip somewhere and they have it available. I need to find a weather proof jack to finish up this part.

Antenna was around $150 and the TV was under $200 + the TV and antenna mounts.


Bob

Nice setup. I always thought you could hardwire a TV to the DC system but didn't know if it would work. Any idea what the amp draw is?

I did the same thing. But I also installed a T.V. in the FWD stateroom. And yes the pictures are just like if not better than cable in the house. I like the NOAA weather with live radar. I have installed a few XM weather radars for customers. they pay a lot and get the same I get for free. We also get a weather station from Mobile, AL. that has 24/7 weather with the girls trying to act.

Bob, sounds like you're all set. I have one comment/concern. By eliminating the 110 volt transformer which supplies a constant regulated output and hooking up directly to the boat's DC system, you will be supplying the unit with a higher voltage than it may be able to handle over time. When your charger is running, it can put out over 14 volts, same with the alternator when under way. Some smart chargers will put out even higher voltages during one of the cycles. You may want to check the maximum input voltage allowed by the TV to ensure longevity. Just thought I'd put it out there.

In my area I get very poor reception with my UFO off air antenna. I'm installing an Intellian I2 satellite dome in the spring I already have DTV boxes on board I was using a dish mounted at my dock but I had no service away from my slip. I have two TVs at the moment and plain to add a third in the cockpit this season. I really don't watch much TV on board but it nice to have at night to keep in touch with the world.

as stated your dc voltage will rise above 12v and the input desired for the tv. you could opt for installing a dc to dc convertor regulator which will smooth out any of the voltage fluctuations thus protecting the tvs. if not just see how long the tvs last and next time you will know if it was needed.
i have been using off air digital for a while and also an in motion sat dish. we enjoy being anchored and watching football etc. but this isnt everybodys idea of boating but it works for us.

Got to ask what sat set up do have g36

Good points on the voltage, I thought it was actually closer to 13v but it is in fact 12v. It will probably be ok but something to think about. I'm going to throw a meter on that circuit and see how much higher than 12v it actually runs.

As far as amperage, the specs on the transformer (not used now) are 1 amp input, 110v, 4amp output at 12 volts.

Bob

I bought a 12 volt LCD high def flat screen; plugs in to a 12 volt outlet in the salon. Hooked it up with a $14 digital antenna that sits flat on the shelf right behind the tv and you can't even see it.

The tv runs on ac/dc and was only $180.00 even has HDMI and all the good stuff and yes it wall mounts if you want to.

This works well for me I don't have a generator and am setting up using 12 volt power as the main source. Planning on installing two six volt deep cycles for house power (I have that set up in the 5th wheel and it works great).

Try this for free entertainment. Anchor close to your local neighborhood boat ramp and get up early Saturday morning, take your coffe to the back deck and watch the show!!

Watch the goings on at the local boat ramp?? Nope - way to violent for the family!! Need to stick to PG-rated stuff.

Foofer your so right, those THT guy's are a riot.

uhm...ahh...do I need all that high tech stuff you'se guys are talking about to watch my DVD's of the 1972 Tennesse State Mixed Midget Jello Wrestling Championships?.... I understand it was a particularly entertaining match....

Lord here we go with that sick stuff again

alexander 38
i use a in motion king controls sat dish