Product Overview
The ANTOP AT-400BV "Big Boy" Series antenna is a versatile outdoor/indoor HDTV antenna designed to provide enhanced reception for both UHF and VHF signals. It supports 4K Ultra HD and 1080p HDTV broadcasts, offering a wide reception range of up to 85 miles. Featuring ANTOP's exclusive Smartpass amplifier and a built-in 4G LTE filter, this antenna ensures optimal signal balance and interference-free digital TV reception. Its sleek, durable, and waterproof design allows for multiple installation options, making it suitable for various home and mobile environments.
Key Features
- Exclusive Smartpass Amplifier: Simplifies antenna setup by automatically balancing signal strength for optimal reception, regardless of distance from broadcast towers.
- Built-in 4G LTE Filter: Blocks unwanted 3G and 4G signals from cell phone towers and other wireless sources, ensuring pristine digital TV reception without noise or dropouts.
- UHF/VHF Enhanced Reception: Includes VHF Enhancer rods to strengthen VHF reception, eliminating the need to rotate the antenna for better signal.
- Multiple Placement Options: Designed for quick and easy installation with optional setups for indoor, outdoor, and mobile locations, including roof, wall, attic, balcony, and tabletop.
- Sleek, Durable, and Waterproof Design: Constructed with hard ABS plastic casing for protection against weather conditions, featuring anti-UV properties and a sleek flat design that blends seamlessly with various environments.
- Supports 4K Ultra HD & 1080p HDTV: Compatible with the latest digital TV standards for high-quality viewing.
What's Included
The ANTOP AT-400BV antenna package typically includes the following components:
- ANTOP AT-400BV Flat Panel Smartpass Amplified HDTV Antenna Unit
- Smartpass Amplifier Power Inserter
- Power Adapter
- Coaxial Cable (approx. 30 feet)
- Indoor Table Stand
- Outdoor Mounting Hardware (for pole or wall mounting)
- Instruction Manual
Setup & Installation Guide
Step 1: Unpacking and Component Identification
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Familiarize yourself with the antenna unit, the Smartpass amplifier, coaxial cable, and mounting accessories.
Image: The ANTOP AT-400BV antenna unit, showcasing its sleek design and the detachable VHF rods. The base stand for indoor use is also visible.
Step 2: Choose Your Mounting Location
The AT-400BV offers flexible installation options. Consider the proximity to broadcast towers and potential obstructions (buildings, trees) when choosing a location. Higher is generally better for reception.
- Indoor (Tabletop or Wall): Ideal for areas with strong signal. Use the included tabletop stand or mount it on an interior wall.
- Attic: Provides protection from weather while offering good reception.
- Outdoor (Roof, Wall, Balcony): Offers the best potential for strong, clear signals. The antenna's durable, waterproof exterior is designed for outdoor exposure.
Images: Visual representations of various installation possibilities, including roof, wall, attic, and balcony mounting, as well as a tabletop setup for indoor use.
Step 3: Connect the Antenna
- Connect the supplied coaxial cable to the antenna's output port.
- Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to the "Antenna In" port on the Smartpass amplifier.
- Connect a short coaxial cable (not always included, may use existing) from the "TV Out" port on the Smartpass amplifier to the "Antenna In" or "RF In" port on your TV or digital converter box.
- Plug the power adapter into the Smartpass amplifier and then into a wall outlet. The amplifier has indicator lights (yellow for short range, green for long range) to confirm power and signal and mode.
Image: The Smartpass amplifier, illustrating the connection points for coaxial cables and the power indicator lights.
The antenna is powerful enough to feed multiple TVs with the addition of a splitter (sold separately).
Image: A visual guide demonstrating how the antenna can be connected to a splitter to provide signal to multiple televisions simultaneously.
Step 4: Scan for Channels
After connecting the antenna, perform a channel scan on your television or digital converter box. This process allows your device to find and save available over-the-air broadcast channels.
- Access your TV's menu or settings.
- Navigate to the "Channel Setup" or "Channel Scan" option.
- Select "Antenna" or "Air" as the signal type (do not select "Cable").
- Initiate the "Auto Channel Search" or "Auto Program" function. This may take several minutes.
- Once the scan is complete, your TV should display the number of digital channels found.
Operating Your Antenna
Once installed and channels are scanned, your ANTOP AT-400BV antenna operates continuously to provide free over-the-air television. No further action is typically required for daily use.
- Signal Optimization: If you experience pixelation or loss of channels, try slightly adjusting the antenna's position or orientation and re-scan for channels.
- Smartpass Amplifier Switch: Experiment with the Smartpass amplifier's switch (on/off) to see which setting provides the best reception for your location. The "on" setting (green light) is for long-range reception, while "off" (yellow light) is for short-range.
Care and Maintenance
The ANTOP AT-400BV is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. Its robust construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the antenna's exterior with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust or dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Weather Protection: The antenna features an anti-UV coating and a waterproof exterior, making it resistant to various weather conditions. Ensure all cable connections are secure and protected from moisture.
- Inspection: Occasionally inspect the antenna and its mounting hardware for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections, especially after severe weather.
Image: Details highlighting the antenna's water-resistant cap and anti-UV properties, ensuring durability in outdoor environments.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Signal / Few Channels | Incorrect TV input, amplifier off, poor antenna placement, obstructions, or weak signal area. | Ensure TV input is set to "Antenna" or "Air". Check if the Smartpass amplifier is powered on (green light). Adjust antenna position/orientation and re-scan channels. Try a higher mounting location. Check signal strength in your area using online tools. |
| Pixelation / Intermittent Signal | Weak signal, interference, or loose connections. | Fine-tune antenna position. Ensure all coaxial cable connections are tight. Check for nearby electronic devices causing interference. Try switching the Smartpass amplifier mode. |
| No Power to Amplifier | Power adapter not plugged in, faulty outlet, or amplifier issue. | Verify the power adapter is securely plugged into the amplifier and a working wall outlet. Check the power indicator light on the amplifier. |
| Missing Specific Channels | Antenna not optimized for all frequencies (UHF/VHF) or directional issues. | Ensure VHF Enhancer rods are properly extended. Re-scan channels after adjusting antenna direction. Consult online resources for local broadcast tower directions. |
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 10.24 x 10.8 x 23.46 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.08 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ANTOP |
| Item Model Number | AT-400BV |
| Antenna Type | Television |
| Color | White |
| Number of Channels | 30 (Note: Actual channels received depend on location and signal strength) |
| Impedance | 75 Ohm |
| Maximum Range | 85 Miles (Note: Range is an estimate and can vary significantly based on terrain, obstructions, and broadcast power) |
| UPC | 600358087151 |
Warranty and Customer Support
Specific warranty details for the ANTOP AT-400BV antenna are not provided in this manual. For comprehensive warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please refer to the official ANTOP website or the documentation included with your product packaging. You may also contact ANTOP customer service directly for assistance with any product-related inquiries.
