Setting Up A Smart Tv In Your Camper

Setting up a smart TV in a camper requires some technical knowledge. You can call a mechanic, but professional services can be expensive. To save money, you can try to set up your smart TV yourself. This will involve connecting your TV to an antenna or satellite dish, and possibly a control box, using HDMI or coaxial cables. You may also need to adjust your antenna to get a clear picture.

Choosing the right TV for your camper

• Power availability: Determine how much power you can spare for the TV. Most campervan TVs are 12V, which bypass the need for mains electricity and can be powered by a leisure battery. However, some 12V TVs are adapted 240V TVs and are not designed for the voltage of a leisure battery, so opt for a version specifically for 12V to avoid the risk of short-circuiting or catching fire.
• Space: Consider how much space you have available for the TV and its aerial. Even smooth roads can cause the TV to shake or wobble, so ensure you have a suitable area to hang the TV and mount it securely.
• Weight: Take into account the weight of the TV, aerial, and any other accessories, ensuring they don't exceed your payload capacity.
• Features and technology: Decide which additional features you would benefit from. Options include a side-loading CD/DVD player, program recording, red button info (great for weather forecasts), and a USB port. Keep in mind that slimmer campervan TVs might need additional speakers to achieve a good volume level.
• Cost: Determine your budget for the TV. Also, consider whether fitting solar panels would be worthwhile to keep your batteries charged.
• Picture quality: Look for a TV with good picture quality, such as LED and HDTVs ranging from 720p to 1080p or even 2160p for a clearer picture.
• Sound quality: Ensure the TV has good sound quality, especially if you plan to use it for movie watching. Look for TVs with advanced sound features and multiple speakers.
• Inputs and outputs: Consider how many devices you will be connecting to the TV, such as DVD players, stereo receivers, and speakers. You will need multiple inputs and outputs to accommodate these devices.
• Brand and durability: Research different TV brands and their durability. Some popular RV TV brands include Insignia, Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, and Westinghouse. Be cautious of certain brands that claim to handle the road but have sub-par picture quality, such as Furrion, Jensen, and TCL.
• Mounting options: Decide whether you prefer a table-mounted or wall-mounted TV. Ensure that the mounting brackets are sturdy and can withstand vibrations and bumps during travel.

Setting up the satellite antenna

Step 1: Unbox and Set Up the Satellite Antenna

Start by carefully unboxing your satellite antenna and following the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a perfect setup. This step is critical in ensuring your antenna functions as intended.

Step 2: Place the Antenna on the RV Roof

The ideal place to attach your antenna is on the RV roof. Use silicone caulk to properly secure the antenna to the roof. After applying the sealant, wait for it to dry completely. You can also screw the dish to the roof for added support. Choose a stable spot, such as the backside, for attaching the antenna.

Step 3: Pass the Cables

Find the holes or hookups inside your RV through which you can run the cables. Then, pass both the socket and power cables through these holes.

Step 4: Connect the Cables

Connect one end of the cables to the antenna and the other end to either the control box or the TV. If you're connecting to a control box, remember to also connect the control box cables to the RV TV.

Step 5: Mounting and Bracket Attachment

Choose a suitable area inside the camper for hanging the TV. Look for a place where it will be most comfortable and accessible. Once decided, mount the screws in the accurate position and attach the television using TV brackets. Fasten the brackets securely to the mounts.

Now that you have completed the steps for setting up the satellite antenna, you can enjoy your favourite TV shows while camping! Remember that investing in quality products will ensure better performance and a more enjoyable viewing experience.

Antenna placement

The best place to attach your antenna is on the roof of your camper. This is because the roof offers the best chance of receiving a strong signal. When placing the antenna, use silicone caulk to attach it properly. After applying the sealant, wait until it dries off completely. If you think gluing is not enough, screw the dish to the roof for extra support. Choose a stable spot, such as the backside, for attaching the antenna.

If you are using an outdoor antenna, you must raise the antenna to use it or lower it when your vehicle is driving. Outdoor antennas are usually made of plastic and aluminum, which can snap easily, so be careful not to leave it up and drive under a tree.

If you are using an indoor antenna, you won't need to raise or lower it. However, you will need to purchase an RV antenna booster to boost the indoor signal.

To pick up HD signals from local affiliates of major networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, you will need a TV antenna. To receive HD channels, you must get an HD antenna.

There are a few different types of RV antennas to choose from:

• Portables: These are generally the most cost-effective option. They can be moved to suit your needs in each location, but they must be set up and taken down each time you move.
• Domes: Domes have a sleek, modern look and are automatic. They can be mounted on the roof of your RV, meaning less to worry about during setup and teardown. Some can also be used when the vehicle is in motion.
• Multi-Satellite TV Antennas: These use multiple antennas to ensure they always offer the best possible signal. They are the most reliable option but also the most expensive.

When choosing an RV antenna, consider the material, definition, UHF and VHF signals, weight, WiFi capacity, price, and installation process.

Cable plugging

If you already have an antenna for your camper, you will need to plug in the cables coming from the RV antenna to the back of the TV. If this is not possible, plug them into the control box, and then connect the cables from the control box to the television. For an HD-supported antenna, you will use HDMI cables, similar to A/V cables. If the antenna is not HD-supported, you will need to use coaxial cables, screwing them into the back of the control box or the TV.

If you are setting up a new antenna, you will need to connect the cables to the antenna itself and then to the control box or the TV. Again, if you are connecting to a control box, you will then need to connect the control box cables to the TV.

Cable Types

The type of cable you use will depend on the type of antenna and TV you have. If you have an HD-supported antenna, you will use HDMI cables. If your antenna is not HD-supported, you will need to use coaxial cables.

Tips for Cable Connection

• Make sure your TV is set to the correct input (cable or air) when scanning for channels.
• Ensure your TV antenna booster is turned off when using a campground cable signal.
• If you are using a digital cable system, your TV will need a QAM receiver to receive the signal.

Screw mounting

Select a Suitable Area:

First, you need to choose an appropriate location inside your camper for hanging the TV. Consider your comfort and viewing angles when selecting the spot. Make sure it is a place where you won't need to change the setup frequently.

Mount the Screws:

Once you've decided on the location, it's time to mount the screws. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your camper wall. The studs will provide a secure and stable base for mounting your TV. Mark the positions of the studs with a pencil or a marking tool.

If you're mounting on an exterior wall, you can use a plywood sheet as a backer board. Attach the plywood to the wall by screwing into the studs. Make sure the screws are long enough to hold the plywood securely but not so long that they penetrate too far into the wall.

Attach the Brackets:

After the screws are in place, it's time to attach the TV brackets. These brackets will connect the television to the mounted screws or plywood. Make sure the brackets are securely fastened to provide a stable base for your TV.

Place and Connect Your TV:

Now, carefully lift your TV and align it with the mounting brackets. Gently slide the TV into position until you hear a click, indicating that it's locked in place.

Finally, connect the necessary cables, such as HDMI, power cords, and an antenna, to your TV. If you have a smart TV, you can easily connect it to the Wi-Fi for instant viewing.

Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take all necessary safety precautions when performing the screw mounting process.

Frequently asked questions